FWIW, I like to mix in a non traditional IPA hop into a blend fairly often - as something in the background, the thing you like but can't put your finger on. I've used about all the Hallertau derived hops (of which Emerald is one), Saaz, Motueka ( Saaz derived), etc. I love Mt Hood in an IPA, as part of the blend. I think the Smaragd will work really well as an accent.