AdmiralvsBramling Cross
Admiral (bittering) and Bramling Cross (dual purpose) 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
Bramling Cross
Alpha acid
5–8%
Beta acid
2.3–3.2%
Total oil
0.7–1.2 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Admiral
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Bramling Cross
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Admiral
OrangeTeaFreshPineCitrusResinHerbal
Only in Bramling Cross
Black currantLoganberryVanillaLemonSpicy
Property
| Property | Admiral | Bramling Cross |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 13–16.2% | 5–8% |
| Beta acid | 4.8–6.1% | 2.3–3.2% |
| Co-humulone | 37–45% | 33–35% |
| Total oil | 1–1.7 mL | 0.7–1.2 mL |
| Myrcene | 39–48% | 35–37% |
| Humulene | 23–26% | 29–31% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–8% | 14–16% |
| Farnesene | 0–2% | 0–2% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |
Bullion