SmaragdvsSimcoe

Smaragd (bittering) and Simcoe (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

Simcoe

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–15%

Beta acid

3–5%

Total oil

0.8–3.2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Smaragd

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Simcoe

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Fruity

Only in Smaragd

FloralSpicyTobaccoAniseCloveNoble

Only in Simcoe

EarthyGrapefruitPassion fruitPineBerryApricotBubblegumCitrus

Property

PropertySmaragdSimcoe
Alpha acid4–6%11–15%
Beta acid3.5–5.5%3–5%
Co-humulone13–18%15–21%
Total oil0.4–0.8 mL0.8–3.2 mL
Myrcene20–40%40–50%
Humulene30–50%15–20%
Caryophyllene9–14%8–14%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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