HersbruckervsSaphir

Hersbrucker and Saphir 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

Saphir

Aroma

Alpha acid

2–4.5%

Beta acid

4–7%

Total oil

0.8–1.4 mL

Germany

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 Saphir

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Hersbrucker

NobleHayOrangeTobacco

Only in Saphir

SpicyFruityFloralTangerine

Property

PropertyHersbruckerSaphir
Alpha acid1.5–5%2–4.5%
Beta acid2.5–6%4–7%
Co-humulone17–25%12–17%
Total oil0.5–1.3 mL0.8–1.4 mL
Myrcene15–30%25–40%
Humulene20–30%20–30%
Caryophyllene8–13%9–14%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyGermany
PurposeAromaAroma

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