Idaho 7vsEl Dorado

Idaho 7 (aroma) and El Dorado (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Idaho 7

Aroma

Alpha acid

9.5–14.9%

Beta acid

3.5–5%

Total oil

1–2 mL

United States

El Dorado

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

13–17%

Beta acid

6.4–8%

Total oil

2.5–3.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Idaho 7

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick El Dorado

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Tropical

Only in Idaho 7

Black currantCitrusApricotOrangeGrapefruitPapayaResinPineFloralBlack currantEarthy

Only in El Dorado

FruityPearWatermelonCandyStone fruit

Property

PropertyIdaho 7El Dorado
Alpha acid9.5–14.9%13–17%
Beta acid3.5–5%6.4–8%
Co-humulone30–40%28–33%
Total oil1–2 mL2.5–3.3 mL
Myrcene45–55%55–60%
Humulene10–20%10–15%
Caryophyllene6–10%6–8%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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