Styrian CardinalvsBobek

Styrian Cardinal (aroma) and Bobek (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Styrian Cardinal

Aroma

Alpha acid

8–15%

Beta acid

3.2–4.6%

Total oil

3–4 mL

Slovenia

Bobek

Bittering

Alpha acid

3.5–9.3%

Beta acid

4–6.6%

Total oil

0.7–4 mL

Slovenia

Key differences

When to pick Styrian Cardinal

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Bobek

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Styrian Cardinal

CitrusGooseberryPineappleOrangeLimeJasmineGuava

Only in Bobek

PineFloral

Property

PropertyStyrian CardinalBobek
Alpha acid8–15%3.5–9.3%
Beta acid3.2–4.6%4–6.6%
Co-humulone31–37%26–31%
Total oil3–4 mL0.7–4 mL
Myrcene40–50%30–45%
Humulene15–22%13–19%
Caryophyllene8–11%4–6%
Farnesene5–7%4–7%
OriginSloveniaSlovenia
PurposeAromaBittering

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