Styrian CardinalvsSimcoe

Styrian Cardinal (aroma) and Simcoe (dual purpose) 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

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 Styrian Cardinal

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Simcoe

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Styrian Cardinal

GooseberryPineappleOrangeLimeJasmineGuava

Only in Simcoe

FruityEarthyGrapefruitPassion fruitPineBerryApricotBubblegum

Property

PropertyStyrian CardinalSimcoe
Alpha acid8–15%11–15%
Beta acid3.2–4.6%3–5%
Co-humulone31–37%15–21%
Total oil3–4 mL0.8–3.2 mL
Myrcene40–50%40–50%
Humulene15–22%15–20%
Caryophyllene8–11%8–14%
Farnesene5–7%0–1%
OriginSloveniaUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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