HerkulesvsHersbrucker
Herkules (bittering) and Hersbrucker (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Herkules
Alpha acid
12–17%
Beta acid
4–5.5%
Total oil
1.4–2.4 mL
Germany
Hersbrucker
Alpha acid
1.5–5%
Beta acid
2.5–6%
Total oil
0.5–1.3 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Herkules
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Hersbrucker
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Herkules
CitrusMelon
Only in Hersbrucker
NobleHayOrangeTobacco
Property
| Property | Herkules | Hersbrucker |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–17% | 1.5–5% |
| Beta acid | 4–5.5% | 2.5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 32–38% | 17–25% |
| Total oil | 1.4–2.4 mL | 0.5–1.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–50% | 15–30% |
| Humulene | 30–45% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–12% | 8–13% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | Germany |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |
Liberty