SummervsZappa

Summer and Zappa are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Summer

Aroma

Alpha acid

5.6–6.4%

Beta acid

4.8–6.1%

Total oil

1.4–2 mL

Australia

Zappa

Aroma

Alpha acid

6–9%

Beta acid

8–9%

Total oil

1.8–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Summer

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

When to pick Zappa

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusPassion fruit

Only in Summer

ApricotMelonGrassyStone fruitPeach

Only in Zappa

MintSavoryFruityMangoTropicalPineSpicyFresh

Property

PropertySummerZappa
Alpha acid5.6–6.4%6–9%
Beta acid4.8–6.1%8–9%
Co-humulone20–25%40–45%
Total oil1.4–2 mL1.8–2.5 mL
Myrcene29–38%64–65%
Humulene28–50%4–5%
Caryophyllene8–11%8–9%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginAustraliaUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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