ZenithvsSimcoe

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

Zenith

Bittering

Alpha acid

9–11%

Beta acid

3%

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 Zenith

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Simcoe

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Zenith

Floral

Only in Simcoe

FruityEarthyGrapefruitPassion fruitPineBerryApricotBubblegum

Property

PropertyZenithSimcoe
Alpha acid9–11%11–15%
Beta acid3%3–5%
Co-humulone25%15–21%
Total oil-0.8–3.2 mL
Myrcene51–53%40–50%
Humulene18–20%15–20%
Caryophyllene6–7%8–14%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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