HersbruckervsSamba

Hersbrucker and Samba 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

Samba

Aroma

Alpha acid

8–12%

Beta acid

4–6%

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 Samba

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Orange

Only in Hersbrucker

NobleHayTobacco

Only in Samba

TropicalPineappleMangoStone fruitCandy

Property

PropertyHersbruckerSamba
Alpha acid1.5–5%8–12%
Beta acid2.5–6%4–6%
Co-humulone17–25%28–32%
Total oil0.5–1.3 mL1.5–2.5 mL
Myrcene15–30%-
Humulene20–30%-
Caryophyllene8–13%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

Related comparisons