Herkules
Alpha acid
12–17%
Beta acid
4–5.5%
Total oil
1.4–2.4 mL
Germany
Merkur
Alpha acid
12–16.2%
Beta acid
4.5–7.3%
Total oil
2–3 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Herkules
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Merkur
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Citrus
Only in Herkules
Melon
Only in Merkur
SugarPineappleMintEarthy
Property
| Property | Herkules | Merkur |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–17% | 12–16.2% |
| Beta acid | 4–5.5% | 4.5–7.3% |
| Co-humulone | 32–38% | 17–20% |
| Total oil | 1.4–2.4 mL | 2–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–50% | 45–50% |
| Humulene | 30–45% | 28–32% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–12% | 8–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | Germany |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |
Hallertau Taurus
Warrior