MedusavsEroica

Medusa (aroma) and Eroica (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Medusa

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–5%

Beta acid

5–6.5%

Total oil

0.4–0.7 mL

United States

Eroica

Bittering

Alpha acid

7.3–14.9%

Beta acid

3–5.3%

Total oil

0.8–1.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Medusa

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Eroica

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Medusa

GuavaMelonCitrusApricotLemonLimeAlfalfaPeach

Only in Eroica

-

Property

PropertyMedusaEroica
Alpha acid3–5%7.3–14.9%
Beta acid5–6.5%3–5.3%
Co-humulone35–49%40%
Total oil0.4–0.7 mL0.8–1.3 mL
Myrcene54–55%55–65%
Humulene9–10%0–1%
Caryophyllene13–14%7–13%
Farnesene1–2%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaBittering

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