SmaragdvsAhtanum

Smaragd (bittering) and Ahtanum (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Smaragd

Bittering

Alpha acid

4–6%

Beta acid

3.5–5.5%

Total oil

0.4–0.8 mL

Germany

Ahtanum

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.5–6.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

0.5–1.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Smaragd

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Ahtanum

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Smaragd

FruitySpicyTobaccoAniseCloveNoble

Only in Ahtanum

CitrusGrapefruitGeraniumPineEarthyCedarLemon

Property

PropertySmaragdAhtanum
Alpha acid4–6%3.5–6.5%
Beta acid3.5–5.5%4–6.5%
Co-humulone13–18%30–35%
Total oil0.4–0.8 mL0.5–1.7 mL
Myrcene20–40%45–55%
Humulene30–50%15–22%
Caryophyllene9–14%9–12%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeBitteringAroma

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