AdmiralvsCentennial

Admiral (bittering) and Centennial (dual purpose) 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

Centennial

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–12%

Beta acid

3.5–5.5%

Total oil

1–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Admiral

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Centennial

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

PineCitrus

Only in Admiral

OrangeTeaFreshResinHerbal

Only in Centennial

FloralGrapefruitTangerine

Property

PropertyAdmiralCentennial
Alpha acid13–16.2%7–12%
Beta acid4.8–6.1%3.5–5.5%
Co-humulone37–45%23–30%
Total oil1–1.7 mL1–3 mL
Myrcene39–48%55–65%
Humulene23–26%10–20%
Caryophyllene6–8%5–7%
Farnesene0–2%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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