MerkurvsWaimea

Merkur and Waimea 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

Waimea

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14.5–19%

Beta acid

7–9%

Total oil

1.8–2.3 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Merkur

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma

When to pick Waimea

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Merkur

SugarPineappleMintEarthy

Only in Waimea

PineMandarinHerbalTangerine

Property

PropertyMerkurWaimea
Alpha acid12–16.2%14.5–19%
Beta acid4.5–7.3%7–9%
Co-humulone17–20%22–24%
Total oil2–3 mL1.8–2.3 mL
Myrcene45–50%59–61%
Humulene28–32%9–10%
Caryophyllene8–10%2–3%
Farnesene0–1%4–6%
OriginGermanyNew Zealand
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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