PalisadevsSmaragd

Palisade (dual purpose) and Smaragd (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Palisade

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5.5–10%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

0.8–2 mL

United States

Smaragd

Bittering

Alpha acid

4–6%

Beta acid

3.5–5.5%

Total oil

0.4–0.8 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Palisade

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Smaragd

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Palisade

OrangeYogurtHoneyPassion fruitApricotClean

Only in Smaragd

FruitySpicyTobaccoAniseCloveNoble

Property

PropertyPalisadeSmaragd
Alpha acid5.5–10%4–6%
Beta acid5.5–8%3.5–5.5%
Co-humulone24–29%13–18%
Total oil0.8–2 mL0.4–0.8 mL
Myrcene45–55%20–40%
Humulene10–20%30–50%
Caryophyllene8–16%9–14%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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