Styrian DragonvsZeus

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

Styrian Dragon

Aroma

Alpha acid

6–11%

Beta acid

7.5–8.5%

Total oil

1.5–2.1 mL

Slovenia

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 Styrian Dragon

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Zeus

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Styrian Dragon

FloralCitrusGrapefruitLemonBerryRoseTropical

Only in Zeus

Black currantLicoriceCurryPungent

Property

PropertyStyrian DragonZeus
Alpha acid6–11%13–17.5%
Beta acid7.5–8.5%4–6.5%
Co-humulone23–24%28–40%
Total oil1.5–2.1 mL2.4–4.5 mL
Myrcene58–63%45–60%
Humulene22–33%9–18%
Caryophyllene12–16%6–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginSloveniaUnited States
PurposeAromaBittering

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