Styrian CardinalvsZeus
Styrian Cardinal (aroma) and Zeus (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
Zeus
Alpha acid
13–17.5%
Beta acid
4–6.5%
Total oil
2.4–4.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Styrian Cardinal
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Zeus
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- 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 Zeus
Black currantLicoriceCurryPungent
Property
| Property | Styrian Cardinal | Zeus |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 8–15% | 13–17.5% |
| Beta acid | 3.2–4.6% | 4–6.5% |
| Co-humulone | 31–37% | 28–40% |
| Total oil | 3–4 mL | 2.4–4.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 40–50% | 45–60% |
| Humulene | 15–22% | 9–18% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–11% | 6–11% |
| Farnesene | 5–7% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Slovenia | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Bittering |