Smooth ConevsZeus

Smooth Cone (dual purpose) and Zeus (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Smooth Cone

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–9.5%

Beta acid

3.4–5.2%

Total oil

0.4–1.14 mL

New Zealand

Zeus

Bittering

Alpha acid

13–17.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

2.4–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Smooth Cone

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Zeus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Smooth Cone

-

Only in Zeus

Black currantLicoriceCurryPungent

Property

PropertySmooth ConeZeus
Alpha acid7–9.5%13–17.5%
Beta acid3.4–5.2%4–6.5%
Co-humulone31%28–40%
Total oil0.4–1.14 mL2.4–4.5 mL
Myrcene54–56%45–60%
Humulene20–22%9–18%
Caryophyllene5–7%6–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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