OmegavsHerald

Omega (aroma) and Herald (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Omega

Aroma

Alpha acid

9–10%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

-

United Kingdom

Herald

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–13%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

1–1.9 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Omega

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Herald

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Omega

-

Only in Herald

OrangeGrapefruitCitrusClean

Property

PropertyOmegaHerald
Alpha acid9–10%9–13%
Beta acid3–4%4.5–5.5%
Co-humulone29%35–37%
Total oil-1–1.9 mL
Myrcene52–54%39–41%
Humulene16–18%14–16%
Caryophyllene4–6%6–8%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited Kingdom
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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