Merkur
Alpha acid
12–16.2%
Beta acid
4.5–7.3%
Total oil
2–3 mL
Germany
El Dorado
Alpha acid
13–17%
Beta acid
6.4–8%
Total oil
2.5–3.3 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Merkur
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick El Dorado
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Merkur
SugarPineappleMintCitrusEarthy
Only in El Dorado
FruityTropicalPearWatermelonCandyStone fruit
Property
| Property | Merkur | El Dorado |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–16.2% | 13–17% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–7.3% | 6.4–8% |
| Co-humulone | 17–20% | 28–33% |
| Total oil | 2–3 mL | 2.5–3.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–50% | 55–60% |
| Humulene | 28–32% | 10–15% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–10% | 6–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |
Hallertau Taurus
Nelson Sauvin