MackinacvsHallertau Tradition

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

Mackinac

Aroma

Alpha acid

9–14%

Beta acid

2.8–4%

Total oil

1.5–2.2 mL

United States

Hallertau Tradition

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.6–7%

Beta acid

3–6%

Total oil

0.5–1.9 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Mackinac

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Hallertau Tradition

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Mackinac

TropicalCitrusMelonPapayaSpicyFloralBlack currant

Only in Hallertau Tradition

EarthyGrassyNectarFruityNoble

Property

PropertyMackinacHallertau Tradition
Alpha acid9–14%4.6–7%
Beta acid2.8–4%3–6%
Co-humulone28–35%23–30%
Total oil1.5–2.2 mL0.5–1.9 mL
Myrcene15–17%17–32%
Humulene11–12%35–50%
Caryophyllene4–5%10–15%
Farnesene1–2%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeAromaAroma

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