SimcoevsXJA2/436

Simcoe (dual purpose) and XJA2/436 (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

XJA2/436

Bittering

Alpha acid

11.5–16.4%

Beta acid

7.8–8.4%

Total oil

1.1–1.7 mL

South Africa

Key differences

When to pick Simcoe

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick XJA2/436

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Simcoe

FruityEarthyGrapefruitPassion fruitPineBerryApricotBubblegum

Only in XJA2/436

LemonZestPapayaCataloupeGooseberryResinBlueberry

Property

PropertySimcoeXJA2/436
Alpha acid11–15%11.5–16.4%
Beta acid3–5%7.8–8.4%
Co-humulone15–21%29–30%
Total oil0.8–3.2 mL1.1–1.7 mL
Myrcene40–50%18–30%
Humulene15–20%21–35%
Caryophyllene8–14%11–13%
Farnesene0–1%8–18%
OriginUnited StatesSouth Africa
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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