MinstrelvsBarbe Rouge
Minstrel (dual purpose) and Barbe Rouge (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Minstrel
Alpha acid
5–7%
Beta acid
3–3.5%
Total oil
0.5–0.7 mL
United Kingdom
Barbe Rouge
Alpha acid
3.8–10%
Beta acid
3.3–4.6%
Total oil
1.1–3 mL
France
Key differences
When to pick Minstrel
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Barbe Rouge
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
HerbalBerryOrange
Only in Minstrel
Spicy
Only in Barbe Rouge
CitrusKumquatLimeRedcurrantStrawberryRaspberryFloral
Property
| Property | Minstrel | Barbe Rouge |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5–7% | 3.8–10% |
| Beta acid | 3–3.5% | 3.3–4.6% |
| Co-humulone | 22–26% | 24–28% |
| Total oil | 0.5–0.7 mL | 1.1–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 22–25% | 35–60% |
| Humulene | 1–4% | 15–25% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 2–4% |
| Farnesene | 7–9% | 0–4% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | France |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |