Smaragd Hops

AromaAlpha 4.0 - 6.5%Germany

Smaragd, which translates to "Emerald" in German, is a distinguished variety representing the refined evolution of the Hallertau lineage. Released in 2000 by the Hüll Hop Hop Research Institute, it was bred from Hallertauer Gold to provide a more disease-resistant alternative for the Hallertau growing region. This "Noble-plus" cultivar was specifically engineered to preserve the sophisticated essence of its ancestry while introducing the agricultural robustness required for modern sustainable farming. Because it balances high-quality bittering potential with pleasant aromatic traits, Smaragd has become a prized dual-purpose workhorse for brewers who value both chemical purity and traditional soul.

The sensory profile of Smaragd is a masterclass in clean, fruit-inflected herbal complexity. It leads with a primary, "polished" bouquet of dried flowers, fresh-cut hay, and sweet clover, followed by a subtle, creamy fruitiness reminiscent of ripe melon and lemon peel. As the profile develops, brewers will find a sophisticated spicy backbone—defined by notes of black tea and noble earth—that remains exceptionally smooth on the palate. Thanks to its remarkably low cohumulone levels, Smaragd delivers a velvety, non-lingering bitterness and a crisp, refreshing finish, making it the definitive choice for imparting a bright German character with a unique, modern fruity elegance.

Substitution Tip

If you can't find Smaragd, the best alternatives are Hallertau, Spalter Select, or Tettnanger.

At A Glance

ProfileHerbal, Dried Flowers, Fresh-Cut Hay, Sweet Clover, Ripe Melon, Lemon Peel, Spicy, Black Tea, Earthy
PurposeAroma
Alpha Acid4.0 - 6.5%
SubstitutesHallertau, Spalter Select, Tettnanger
Pairs withHallertauer Tradition (to ground the fruitiness with earth), Hersbrucker (for a classic/integrated European profile), Saphir (to amplify citrus notes)
Beer StylesGerman Pilsner, Helles, Altbier, Kölsch, Hefeweizen, Belgian Ale

General Information

Country
Germany
Aliases
Emerald, German Emerald
Storage Stability
Retains 60 - 70% alpha acid

Brewing Chemistry (Acids & Oils)

Alpha Acid
4.0 - 6.5%
Beta Acid
3.5 - 5.5%
Cohumulone
13.0 - 18.0%
Total Oil
1.0 - 1.8 ml/100g
Myrcene
20.0 - 40.0%
Humulene
30.0 - 50.0%
Caryophyllene
9.0 - 14.0%
Farnesene
< 1.0%
Linalool
0.7 - 1.1%
Geraniol
~0.3%

Growth & Cultivation

Yield
1,650 - 1,900 lbs/acre
Maturity
Mid season
Resistant
Powdery Mildew (high), Downy Mildew (high)
Tolerant
Aphid
Susceptible
Verticillium Wilt
Growth Rate
High
Cones
Medium-sized, oval, and very dense with high lupulin saturation
Ease of Harvest
Excellent; specifically selected for its suitability for modern mechanical picking and its resilienc
Sex
Female
Leaf Color
Medium-dark green
Side Arm Length
20" - 30"

Smaragd Aroma/Flavor Profile

Aroma
CitrusTropical FruitStone FruitApple/PearMelonBerryFloralSpicy/Herbal

Discovery Tags

Usage

Origin

Last Updated
  • 2026-04-03 00:24:57