SimcoevsStyrian Cardinal

Simcoe (dual purpose) and Styrian Cardinal (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Simcoe

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–15%

Beta acid

3–5%

Total oil

0.8–3.2 mL

United States

Styrian Cardinal

Aroma

Alpha acid

8–15%

Beta acid

3.2–4.6%

Total oil

3–4 mL

Slovenia

Key differences

When to pick Simcoe

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Styrian Cardinal

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Simcoe

FruityEarthyGrapefruitPassion fruitPineBerryApricotBubblegum

Only in Styrian Cardinal

GooseberryPineappleOrangeLimeJasmineGuava

Property

PropertySimcoeStyrian Cardinal
Alpha acid11–15%8–15%
Beta acid3–5%3.2–4.6%
Co-humulone15–21%31–37%
Total oil0.8–3.2 mL3–4 mL
Myrcene40–50%40–50%
Humulene15–20%15–22%
Caryophyllene8–14%8–11%
Farnesene0–1%5–7%
OriginUnited StatesSlovenia
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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