SimcoevsSummit

Simcoe (dual purpose) and Summit (bittering) 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

Summit

Bittering

Alpha acid

15–17.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Simcoe

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Summit

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

EarthyGrapefruitCitrus

Only in Simcoe

FruityPassion fruitPineBerryApricotBubblegum

Only in Summit

Black currantAniseIncenseOrangeTangerineOnionGarlicDankCannabis

Property

PropertySimcoeSummit
Alpha acid11–15%15–17.5%
Beta acid3–5%4–6.5%
Co-humulone15–21%26–33%
Total oil0.8–3.2 mL1.5–3 mL
Myrcene40–50%30–40%
Humulene15–20%18–22%
Caryophyllene8–14%12–16%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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