Vic SecretvsZeus
Vic Secret (dual purpose) and Zeus (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Vic Secret
Alpha acid
14–21.8%
Beta acid
5.7–8.7%
Total oil
1.9–2.8 mL
Australia
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 Vic Secret
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Zeus
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- 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 Vic Secret
TropicalPineapplePinePassion fruitHerbalEarthy
Only in Zeus
Black currantLicoriceCurryPungent
Property
| Property | Vic Secret | Zeus |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 14–21.8% | 13–17.5% |
| Beta acid | 5.7–8.7% | 4–6.5% |
| Co-humulone | 51–57% | 28–40% |
| Total oil | 1.9–2.8 mL | 2.4–4.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 31–46% | 45–60% |
| Humulene | 9–21% | 9–18% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–15% | 6–11% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Australia | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |