MerkurvsChinook

Merkur and Chinook are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Merkur

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

12–16.2%

Beta acid

4.5–7.3%

Total oil

2–3 mL

Germany

Chinook

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–15%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Merkur

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

When to pick Chinook

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Merkur

SugarPineappleMintCitrusEarthy

Only in Chinook

PineResinGrapefruitSpicyDankCannabis

Property

PropertyMerkurChinook
Alpha acid12–16.2%11.5–15%
Beta acid4.5–7.3%3–4%
Co-humulone17–20%27–35%
Total oil2–3 mL1–2.7 mL
Myrcene45–50%20–30%
Humulene28–32%18–24%
Caryophyllene8–10%9–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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