Idaho 7vsVic Secret

Idaho 7 (aroma) and Vic Secret (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

Vic Secret

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14–21.8%

Beta acid

5.7–8.7%

Total oil

1.9–2.8 mL

Australia

Key differences

When to pick Idaho 7

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Vic Secret

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

TropicalPineEarthy

Only in Idaho 7

Black currantCitrusApricotOrangeGrapefruitPapayaResinFloralBlack currant

Only in Vic Secret

PineapplePassion fruitHerbal

Property

PropertyIdaho 7Vic Secret
Alpha acid9.5–14.9%14–21.8%
Beta acid3.5–5%5.7–8.7%
Co-humulone30–40%51–57%
Total oil1–2 mL1.9–2.8 mL
Myrcene45–55%31–46%
Humulene10–20%9–21%
Caryophyllene6–10%9–15%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesAustralia
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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