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