Merkur
Alpha acid
12–16.2%
Beta acid
4.5–7.3%
Total oil
2–3 mL
Germany
Eroica
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 Merkur
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Eroica
- 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 Merkur
SugarPineappleMintCitrusEarthy
Only in Eroica
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Property
| Property | Merkur | Eroica |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–16.2% | 7.3–14.9% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–7.3% | 3–5.3% |
| Co-humulone | 17–20% | 40% |
| Total oil | 2–3 mL | 0.8–1.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–50% | 55–65% |
| Humulene | 28–32% | 0–1% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–10% | 7–13% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |
Hallertau Taurus