HersbruckervsHydra
Hersbrucker (aroma) and Hydra (dual purpose) 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
Hydra
Alpha acid
10.5–13.7%
Beta acid
6.4–7.9%
Total oil
-
United States
Key differences
When to pick Hersbrucker
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Hydra
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- 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
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Hersbrucker
NobleHayOrangeTobacco
Only in Hydra
CitrusTangerineMandarinZestResinLimeBerryPeachWatermelonRoseApricotTropical
Property
| Property | Hersbrucker | Hydra |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 1.5–5% | 10.5–13.7% |
| Beta acid | 2.5–6% | 6.4–7.9% |
| Co-humulone | 17–25% | 27–28% |
| Total oil | 0.5–1.3 mL | - |
| Myrcene | 15–30% | 54–55% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 11–12% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–13% | 8–9% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |