HersbruckervsBobek

Hersbrucker (aroma) and Bobek (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Hersbrucker

Aroma

Alpha acid

1.5–5%

Beta acid

2.5–6%

Total oil

0.5–1.3 mL

Germany

Bobek

Bittering

Alpha acid

3.5–9.3%

Beta acid

4–6.6%

Total oil

0.7–4 mL

Slovenia

Key differences

When to pick Hersbrucker

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Bobek

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Hersbrucker

NobleHayOrangeTobacco

Only in Bobek

PineFloral

Property

PropertyHersbruckerBobek
Alpha acid1.5–5%3.5–9.3%
Beta acid2.5–6%4–6.6%
Co-humulone17–25%26–31%
Total oil0.5–1.3 mL0.7–4 mL
Myrcene15–30%30–45%
Humulene20–30%13–19%
Caryophyllene8–13%4–6%
Farnesene0–1%4–7%
OriginGermanySlovenia
PurposeAromaBittering

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