SambavsZeus

Samba (aroma) and Zeus (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Samba

Aroma

Alpha acid

8–12%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 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 Samba

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Zeus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Samba

TropicalPineappleMangoStone fruitCandyOrange

Only in Zeus

Black currantLicoriceCurryPungent

Property

PropertySambaZeus
Alpha acid8–12%13–17.5%
Beta acid4–6%4–6.5%
Co-humulone28–32%28–40%
Total oil1.5–2.5 mL2.4–4.5 mL
Myrcene-45–60%
Humulene-9–18%
Caryophyllene-6–11%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaBittering

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