HydravsZeus

Hydra (dual purpose) and Zeus (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

Zeus

Bittering

Alpha acid

13–17.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

2.4–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Hydra

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Zeus

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Hydra

CitrusTangerineMandarinZestResinLimeBerryPeachWatermelonRoseApricotTropical

Only in Zeus

Black currantLicoriceCurryPungent

Property

PropertyHydraZeus
Alpha acid10.5–13.7%13–17.5%
Beta acid6.4–7.9%4–6.5%
Co-humulone27–28%28–40%
Total oil-2.4–4.5 mL
Myrcene54–55%45–60%
Humulene11–12%9–18%
Caryophyllene8–9%6–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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