HersbruckervsNorthern Brewer (US)
Hersbrucker (aroma) and Northern Brewer (US) (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
Northern Brewer (US)
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
3–5.5%
Total oil
1–2 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Hersbrucker
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Northern Brewer (US)
- 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 Northern Brewer (US)
PineWoodyMintBlack currant
Property
| Property | Hersbrucker | Northern Brewer (US) |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 1.5–5% | 7–10% |
| Beta acid | 2.5–6% | 3–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 17–25% | 27–34% |
| Total oil | 0.5–1.3 mL | 1–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 15–30% | 35–45% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 27–31% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–13% | 11–15% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Bittering |