HydravsSummit

Hydra (dual purpose) and Summit (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Hydra

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10.5–13.7%

Beta acid

6.4–7.9%

Total oil

-

United States

Summit

Bittering

Alpha acid

15–17.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Hydra

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Summit

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusTangerine

Only in Hydra

MandarinZestResinLimeBerryPeachWatermelonRoseApricotTropical

Only in Summit

Black currantAniseIncenseOrangeGrapefruitEarthyOnionGarlicDankCannabis

Property

PropertyHydraSummit
Alpha acid10.5–13.7%15–17.5%
Beta acid6.4–7.9%4–6.5%
Co-humulone27–28%26–33%
Total oil-1.5–3 mL
Myrcene54–55%30–40%
Humulene11–12%18–22%
Caryophyllene8–9%12–16%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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