SmaragdvsTomahawk

Smaragd (bittering) and Tomahawk (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

Tomahawk

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

15–17.5%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Smaragd

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Tomahawk

  • 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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Smaragd

FloralFruitySpicyTobaccoAniseCloveNoble

Only in Tomahawk

CitrusBlack currantLicoriceCurryOnion

Property

PropertySmaragdTomahawk
Alpha acid4–6%15–17.5%
Beta acid3.5–5.5%4.5–6%
Co-humulone13–18%28–35%
Total oil0.4–0.8 mL2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene20–40%45–55%
Humulene30–50%9–14%
Caryophyllene9–14%6–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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