Marco PolovsEnigma
Marco Polo (dual purpose) and Enigma (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Marco Polo
Alpha acid
12–13%
Beta acid
4.5–5.5%
Total oil
-
China
Enigma
Alpha acid
13.5–19.4%
Beta acid
4.5–7.1%
Total oil
1.8–3 mL
Australia
Key differences
When to pick Marco Polo
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Enigma
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Marco Polo
GooseberryOreganoElderflower
Only in Enigma
TropicalBerryStone fruitRaspberryRedcurrantWhite
Property
| Property | Marco Polo | Enigma |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–13% | 13.5–19.4% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–5.5% | 4.5–7.1% |
| Co-humulone | 30–35% | 37–43% |
| Total oil | - | 1.8–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 40–50% | 23–30% |
| Humulene | 15–25% | 12–19% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–12% | 6–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 9–12% |
| Origin | China | Australia |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
CTZ
Hallertau Blanc
Nelson Sauvin