LotusvsEl Dorado

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

Lotus

Aroma

Alpha acid

13–17%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 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 Lotus

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick El Dorado

  • 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 Lotus

OrangeVanillaBerryCream

Only in El Dorado

FruityPearWatermelonCandyStone fruit

Property

PropertyLotusEl Dorado
Alpha acid13–17%13–17%
Beta acid5–6%6.4–8%
Co-humulone33–39%28–33%
Total oil1.5–2.5 mL2.5–3.3 mL
Myrcene25–35%55–60%
Humulene35–40%10–15%
Caryophyllene-6–8%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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