MerkurvsPekko

Merkur and Pekko 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

Pekko

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

13–16%

Beta acid

3.5–5%

Total oil

1–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Merkur

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

When to pick Pekko

  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

PineappleMintCitrus

Only in Merkur

SugarEarthy

Only in Pekko

PleasantFloralHerbalMellowThymeCucumberSageLemon

Property

PropertyMerkurPekko
Alpha acid12–16.2%13–16%
Beta acid4.5–7.3%3.5–5%
Co-humulone17–20%27–30%
Total oil2–3 mL1–3 mL
Myrcene45–50%20–30%
Humulene28–32%20–28%
Caryophyllene8–10%15–20%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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