PekkovsZeus

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

Pekko

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

13–16%

Beta acid

3.5–5%

Total oil

1–3 mL

United States

Zeus

Bittering

Alpha acid

13–17.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

2.4–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Pekko

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Zeus

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Pekko

PleasantFloralCitrusMintHerbalMellowPineappleThymeCucumberSageLemon

Only in Zeus

Black currantLicoriceCurryPungent

Property

PropertyPekkoZeus
Alpha acid13–16%13–17.5%
Beta acid3.5–5%4–6.5%
Co-humulone27–30%28–40%
Total oil1–3 mL2.4–4.5 mL
Myrcene20–30%45–60%
Humulene20–28%9–18%
Caryophyllene15–20%6–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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