IndependencevsHersbrucker

Independence and Hersbrucker are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Independence

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.7%

Beta acid

1.5%

Total oil

-

United States

Hersbrucker

Aroma

Alpha acid

1.5–5%

Beta acid

2.5–6%

Total oil

0.5–1.3 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Independence

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Hersbrucker

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Tobacco

Only in Independence

FloralCitrusStone fruitHerbalEarthyPineGrassy

Only in Hersbrucker

NobleHayOrange

Property

PropertyIndependenceHersbrucker
Alpha acid4.7%1.5–5%
Beta acid1.5%2.5–6%
Co-humulone20–21%17–25%
Total oil-0.5–1.3 mL
Myrcene-15–30%
Humulene-20–30%
Caryophyllene-8–13%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeAromaAroma

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