TargetvsHersbrucker

Target (bittering) and Hersbrucker (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Target

Bittering

Alpha acid

8.5–13.5%

Beta acid

4.3–5.7%

Total oil

1–1.4 mL

United Kingdom

Hersbrucker

Aroma

Alpha acid

1.5–5%

Beta acid

2.5–6%

Total oil

0.5–1.3 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Target

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Hersbrucker

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Target

CitrusMarmaladeSageSpicyPepper

Only in Hersbrucker

NobleHayOrangeTobacco

Property

PropertyTargetHersbrucker
Alpha acid8.5–13.5%1.5–5%
Beta acid4.3–5.7%2.5–6%
Co-humulone35–40%17–25%
Total oil1–1.4 mL0.5–1.3 mL
Myrcene45–55%15–30%
Humulene17–23%20–30%
Caryophyllene8–10%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomGermany
PurposeBitteringAroma

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