Herkules (Hop) was bred by the Hop Research Institute in Hüll, Germany. It was released for commercial cultivation in 2005 and gained quick acceptance, primarily because of its tolerance to powdery mildew, at least compared with the older variety, Magnum, which was released 12 years earlier. Its alpha acid levels range from 11% to 17%, its beta acid levels from 4% to 5.5%, and its cohumulone levels from 32% to 38%. In the field, it has good resistance to the main hop disease verticillium wilt, as well as downy and powdery mildew. Its average yield is a respectable 2,300 kg/ha (2,045 lb/acre). It also stores well. Herkules imparts a harmonic bitterness of moderate intensity. Its aroma is floral and fruity with a slight tang. Given its strong bittering prowess and its solid agronomic performance, the breeders felt justified when they named it after Hercules, the heroic figure of Greek mythology.