AdmiralvsBarbe Rouge
Admiral (bittering) and Barbe Rouge (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Admiral
Alpha acid
13–16.2%
Beta acid
4.8–6.1%
Total oil
1–1.7 mL
United Kingdom
Barbe Rouge
Alpha acid
3.8–10%
Beta acid
3.3–4.6%
Total oil
1.1–3 mL
France
Key differences
When to pick Admiral
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Barbe Rouge
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
OrangeCitrusHerbal
Only in Admiral
TeaFreshPineResin
Only in Barbe Rouge
KumquatLimeRedcurrantStrawberryRaspberryFloralBerry
Property
| Property | Admiral | Barbe Rouge |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 13–16.2% | 3.8–10% |
| Beta acid | 4.8–6.1% | 3.3–4.6% |
| Co-humulone | 37–45% | 24–28% |
| Total oil | 1–1.7 mL | 1.1–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 39–48% | 35–60% |
| Humulene | 23–26% | 15–25% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–8% | 2–4% |
| Farnesene | 0–2% | 0–4% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | France |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |
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