MerkurvsTomahawk

Merkur and Tomahawk 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

Tomahawk

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

15–17.5%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Merkur

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

When to pick Tomahawk

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Merkur

SugarPineappleMintEarthy

Only in Tomahawk

Black currantLicoriceCurryOnion

Property

PropertyMerkurTomahawk
Alpha acid12–16.2%15–17.5%
Beta acid4.5–7.3%4.5–6%
Co-humulone17–20%28–35%
Total oil2–3 mL2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene45–50%45–55%
Humulene28–32%9–14%
Caryophyllene8–10%6–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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