AdmiralvsAmarillo

Admiral (bittering) and Amarillo (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Admiral

Bittering

Alpha acid

13–16.2%

Beta acid

4.8–6.1%

Total oil

1–1.7 mL

United Kingdom

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Admiral

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Amarillo

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

OrangeCitrus

Only in Admiral

TeaFreshPineResinHerbal

Only in Amarillo

FloralSpicyTropicalLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Property

PropertyAdmiralAmarillo
Alpha acid13–16.2%7–11%
Beta acid4.8–6.1%5.5–8%
Co-humulone37–45%21–24%
Total oil1–1.7 mL1–2.3 mL
Myrcene39–48%40–70%
Humulene23–26%19–24%
Caryophyllene6–8%7–10%
Farnesene0–2%6–9%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeBitteringAroma

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