MerkurvsMount Hood
Merkur (dual purpose) and Mount Hood (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Merkur
Alpha acid
12–16.2%
Beta acid
4.5–7.3%
Total oil
2–3 mL
Germany
Mount Hood
Alpha acid
3.9–8%
Beta acid
5–8%
Total oil
1.2–1.7 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Merkur
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Mount Hood
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Merkur
SugarPineappleMintCitrusEarthy
Only in Mount Hood
NobleHerbalPungentSpicy
Property
| Property | Merkur | Mount Hood |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–16.2% | 3.9–8% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–7.3% | 5–8% |
| Co-humulone | 17–20% | 21–23% |
| Total oil | 2–3 mL | 1.2–1.7 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–50% | 30–40% |
| Humulene | 28–32% | 12–38% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–10% | 7–16% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Hallertau Taurus