SmaragdvsAurum

Smaragd (bittering) and Aurum (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

Aurum

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.5–5.7%

Beta acid

3.1%

Total oil

0.5–1.7 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Smaragd

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

When to pick Aurum

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralFruitySpicyNoble

Only in Smaragd

TobaccoAniseClove

Only in Aurum

MildHerbalEarthyCitrus

Property

PropertySmaragdAurum
Alpha acid4–6%3.5–5.7%
Beta acid3.5–5.5%3.1%
Co-humulone13–18%20–23%
Total oil0.4–0.8 mL0.5–1.7 mL
Myrcene20–40%-
Humulene30–50%-
Caryophyllene9–14%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginGermanyGermany
PurposeBitteringAroma

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