Smaragd
Alpha acid
4–6%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
0.4–0.8 mL
Germany
Chinook
Alpha acid
11.5–15%
Beta acid
3–4%
Total oil
1–2.7 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Smaragd
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Chinook
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Spicy
Only in Smaragd
FloralFruityTobaccoAniseCloveNoble
Only in Chinook
PineResinGrapefruitDankCannabis
Property
| Property | Smaragd | Chinook |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4–6% | 11.5–15% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–5.5% | 3–4% |
| Co-humulone | 13–18% | 27–35% |
| Total oil | 0.4–0.8 mL | 1–2.7 mL |
| Myrcene | 20–40% | 20–30% |
| Humulene | 30–50% | 18–24% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–14% | 9–11% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |