MerkurvsIdaho Gem

Merkur and Idaho Gem 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

Idaho Gem

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–14%

Beta acid

5–7%

Total oil

1.3–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Merkur

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma

When to pick Idaho Gem

  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

PineappleMintCitrus

Only in Merkur

SugarEarthy

Only in Idaho Gem

CherryCandiedHerbalSpicyStone fruitRedberryMojitoSweet

Property

PropertyMerkurIdaho Gem
Alpha acid12–16.2%11–14%
Beta acid4.5–7.3%5–7%
Co-humulone17–20%40–45%
Total oil2–3 mL1.3–2.3 mL
Myrcene45–50%-
Humulene28–32%-
Caryophyllene8–10%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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