HydravsHallertau Blanc
Hydra (dual purpose) and Hallertau Blanc (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Hydra
Alpha acid
10.5–13.7%
Beta acid
6.4–7.9%
Total oil
-
United States
Hallertau Blanc
Alpha acid
9–12%
Beta acid
4–7%
Total oil
0.8–2.2 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Hydra
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Hallertau Blanc
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Hydra
CitrusTangerineMandarinZestResinLimeBerryPeachWatermelonRoseApricotTropical
Only in Hallertau Blanc
PineappleGooseberryWhiteGrapesLemongrassPassion fruitCleanSauvignon
Property
| Property | Hydra | Hallertau Blanc |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 10.5–13.7% | 9–12% |
| Beta acid | 6.4–7.9% | 4–7% |
| Co-humulone | 27–28% | 22–35% |
| Total oil | - | 0.8–2.2 mL |
| Myrcene | 54–55% | 50–75% |
| Humulene | 11–12% | 0–3% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–9% | 0–2% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Enigma
Nelson Sauvin