SaphirvsElixir

Saphir and Elixir are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Saphir

Aroma

Alpha acid

2–4.5%

Beta acid

4–7%

Total oil

0.8–1.4 mL

Germany

Elixir

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.6–7%

Beta acid

4.5–6.6%

Total oil

1.8–2.2 mL

France

Key differences

When to pick Saphir

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

When to pick Elixir

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

SpicyFloralTangerine

Only in Saphir

Fruity

Only in Elixir

RoseCognacLeatherTobaccoCitrusTropicalOrangeSandalwood

Property

PropertySaphirElixir
Alpha acid2–4.5%4.6–7%
Beta acid4–7%4.5–6.6%
Co-humulone12–17%25–30%
Total oil0.8–1.4 mL1.8–2.2 mL
Myrcene25–40%65–75%
Humulene20–30%1–2%
Caryophyllene9–14%26–27%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyFrance
PurposeAromaAroma

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