SmaragdvsAurora

Smaragd (bittering) and Aurora (dual purpose) 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

Aurora

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6.5–13%

Beta acid

2.7–5.5%

Total oil

0.9–1.8 mL

Slovenia

Key differences

When to pick Smaragd

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Aurora

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralSpicyNoble

Only in Smaragd

FruityTobaccoAniseClove

Only in Aurora

Lemongrass

Property

PropertySmaragdAurora
Alpha acid4–6%6.5–13%
Beta acid3.5–5.5%2.7–5.5%
Co-humulone13–18%20–26%
Total oil0.4–0.8 mL0.9–1.8 mL
Myrcene20–40%20–25%
Humulene30–50%20–25%
Caryophyllene9–14%6–9%
Farnesene0–1%5–10%
OriginGermanySlovenia
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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