HydravsSimcoe

Hydra and Simcoe are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Hydra

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10.5–13.7%

Beta acid

6.4–7.9%

Total oil

-

United States

Simcoe

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–15%

Beta acid

3–5%

Total oil

0.8–3.2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Hydra

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Simcoe

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusBerryApricot

Only in Hydra

TangerineMandarinZestResinLimePeachWatermelonRoseTropical

Only in Simcoe

FruityEarthyGrapefruitPassion fruitPineBubblegum

Property

PropertyHydraSimcoe
Alpha acid10.5–13.7%11–15%
Beta acid6.4–7.9%3–5%
Co-humulone27–28%15–21%
Total oil-0.8–3.2 mL
Myrcene54–55%40–50%
Humulene11–12%15–20%
Caryophyllene8–9%8–14%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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