Marco PolovsAriana

Marco Polo (dual purpose) and Ariana (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Marco Polo

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

12–13%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

-

China

Ariana

Aroma

Alpha acid

9–13%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

1.6–2.4 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Marco Polo

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Ariana

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Gooseberry

Only in Marco Polo

OreganoElderflower

Only in Ariana

CitrusTangerinePassion fruitPineappleJasmineHerbalFruity

Property

PropertyMarco PoloAriana
Alpha acid12–13%9–13%
Beta acid4.5–5.5%4.5–6%
Co-humulone30–35%40–42%
Total oil-1.6–2.4 mL
Myrcene40–50%57–59%
Humulene15–25%-
Caryophyllene8–12%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginChinaGermany
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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