PolarisvsPekko

Polaris and Pekko are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Polaris

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

18–23%

Beta acid

4.5–6.5%

Total oil

4–5 mL

Germany

Pekko

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

13–16%

Beta acid

3.5–5%

Total oil

1–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Polaris

  • 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

When to pick Pekko

  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

MintPineapple

Only in Polaris

Menthol

Only in Pekko

PleasantFloralCitrusHerbalMellowThymeCucumberSageLemon

Property

PropertyPolarisPekko
Alpha acid18–23%13–16%
Beta acid4.5–6.5%3.5–5%
Co-humulone22–29%27–30%
Total oil4–5 mL1–3 mL
Myrcene49–51%20–30%
Humulene20–35%20–28%
Caryophyllene8–13%15–20%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

Related comparisons