MerkurvsHallertau Taurus

Merkur and Hallertau Taurus 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

Hallertau Taurus

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

12–17.9%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

0.9–1.5 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Merkur

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

When to pick Hallertau Taurus

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Earthy

Only in Merkur

SugarPineappleMintCitrus

Only in Hallertau Taurus

ChocolateBananaSpicyPepperCurry

Property

PropertyMerkurHallertau Taurus
Alpha acid12–16.2%12–17.9%
Beta acid4.5–7.3%4–6%
Co-humulone17–20%20–25%
Total oil2–3 mL0.9–1.5 mL
Myrcene45–50%29–31%
Humulene28–32%30–31%
Caryophyllene8–10%7–9%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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