Styrian CardinalvsSummit
Styrian Cardinal (aroma) and Summit (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Styrian Cardinal
Alpha acid
8–15%
Beta acid
3.2–4.6%
Total oil
3–4 mL
Slovenia
Summit
Alpha acid
15–17.5%
Beta acid
4–6.5%
Total oil
1.5–3 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Styrian Cardinal
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Summit
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
CitrusOrange
Only in Styrian Cardinal
GooseberryPineappleLimeJasmineGuava
Only in Summit
Black currantAniseIncenseGrapefruitTangerineEarthyOnionGarlicDankCannabis
Property
| Property | Styrian Cardinal | Summit |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 8–15% | 15–17.5% |
| Beta acid | 3.2–4.6% | 4–6.5% |
| Co-humulone | 31–37% | 26–33% |
| Total oil | 3–4 mL | 1.5–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 40–50% | 30–40% |
| Humulene | 15–22% | 18–22% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–11% | 12–16% |
| Farnesene | 5–7% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Slovenia | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Bittering |