SimcoevsSorachi Ace

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

Simcoe

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–15%

Beta acid

3–5%

Total oil

0.8–3.2 mL

United States

Sorachi Ace

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–16%

Beta acid

6–8%

Total oil

1–3 mL

Japan

Key differences

When to pick Simcoe

  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Sorachi Ace

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Simcoe

FruityEarthyGrapefruitPassion fruitPineBerryApricotBubblegum

Only in Sorachi Ace

LemonDillWoodyTobaccoHerbal

Property

PropertySimcoeSorachi Ace
Alpha acid11–15%11–16%
Beta acid3–5%6–8%
Co-humulone15–21%23–28%
Total oil0.8–3.2 mL1–3 mL
Myrcene40–50%45–55%
Humulene15–20%20–26%
Caryophyllene8–14%7–11%
Farnesene0–1%2–5%
OriginUnited StatesJapan
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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