HersbruckervsLotus

Hersbrucker and Lotus are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Hersbrucker

Aroma

Alpha acid

1.5–5%

Beta acid

2.5–6%

Total oil

0.5–1.3 mL

Germany

Lotus

Aroma

Alpha acid

13–17%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Hersbrucker

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

When to pick Lotus

  • 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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Orange

Only in Hersbrucker

NobleHayTobacco

Only in Lotus

VanillaBerryTropicalCream

Property

PropertyHersbruckerLotus
Alpha acid1.5–5%13–17%
Beta acid2.5–6%5–6%
Co-humulone17–25%33–39%
Total oil0.5–1.3 mL1.5–2.5 mL
Myrcene15–30%25–35%
Humulene20–30%35–40%
Caryophyllene8–13%-
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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