Melba
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
2.5–5%
Total oil
2–4 mL
Australia
Simcoe
Alpha acid
11–15%
Beta acid
3–5%
Total oil
0.8–3.2 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Melba
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Simcoe
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Passion fruitGrapefruitCitrus
Only in Melba
Spicy
Only in Simcoe
FruityEarthyPineBerryApricotBubblegum
Property
| Property | Melba | Simcoe |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 7–10% | 11–15% |
| Beta acid | 2.5–5% | 3–5% |
| Co-humulone | 25–35% | 15–21% |
| Total oil | 2–4 mL | 0.8–3.2 mL |
| Myrcene | - | 40–50% |
| Humulene | - | 15–20% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 8–14% |
| Farnesene | - | 0–1% |
| Origin | Australia | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |