TillicumvsSimcoe

Tillicum (bittering) and Simcoe (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Tillicum

Bittering

Alpha acid

13.5–15.5%

Beta acid

9.5–11.5%

Total oil

-

United States

Simcoe

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–15%

Beta acid

3–5%

Total oil

0.8–3.2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Tillicum

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Simcoe

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Tillicum

Stone fruit

Only in Simcoe

FruityEarthyGrapefruitPassion fruitPineBerryApricotBubblegum

Property

PropertyTillicumSimcoe
Alpha acid13.5–15.5%11–15%
Beta acid9.5–11.5%3–5%
Co-humulone35%15–21%
Total oil-0.8–3.2 mL
Myrcene39–41%40–50%
Humulene13–15%15–20%
Caryophyllene7–8%8–14%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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