Perle (US)vsZeus

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

Perle (US)

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

4–9%

Beta acid

2.5–4.5%

Total oil

0.5–2 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 Perle (US)

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Zeus

  • 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
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Perle (US)

SlightlyHerbalFloral

Only in Zeus

Black currantLicoriceCurryPungent

Property

PropertyPerle (US)Zeus
Alpha acid4–9%13–17.5%
Beta acid2.5–4.5%4–6.5%
Co-humulone28–35%28–40%
Total oil0.5–2 mL2.4–4.5 mL
Myrcene30–45%45–60%
Humulene28–34%9–18%
Caryophyllene12–16%6–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

Related comparisons