Simcoe

Leads grapefruit citrus, tropical, and berry altogether. Background notes of pine and dank.

Where It Lives

• Tropical & Citrus (primary home)
• Stone Fruit & Berry (berry-forward)

Storytime

Simcoe emerged in the early 2000s and quickly became one of the most popular modern American hops. Brewers like it because it brings serious aroma without being overly delicate. Very popular because of its prized tropical notes.

Key Specs

• Alpha Acids: 12 – 14%
• Total Oil: 2.0 – 2.5 mL/100g
• Origin: United States
• Form: Pellet
• Common Substitutions: Summit, Citra (in some recipes)
• More tech specs here

Practical Use

Works well for bittering thanks to its solid alpha acids, but it really shines in late additions and dry hopping. It plays nicely in both classic West Coast IPAs and more modern, fruitier styles.

Dry hop 2–4 oz total in 5 gallons is a common range for good impact to deliver the fruit notes. Some people push higher (5–6+ oz), especially in very hop-forward beers, but it can get quite resinous and dank if overdone.

Best for: Late boil, whirlpool, and dry hopping. Brew day tip: Add late or as a dry hop to preserve the brighter citrus and berry notes. It pairs especially well with Citra, Mosaic, and Amarillo.