AdmiralvsColumbus

Admiral (bittering) and Columbus (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

Columbus

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14–18%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Admiral

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Columbus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Admiral

OrangeTeaFreshPineResinHerbal

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyFloralPungentDankCannabis

Property

PropertyAdmiralColumbus
Alpha acid13–16.2%14–18%
Beta acid4.8–6.1%4.5–6%
Co-humulone37–45%28–35%
Total oil1–1.7 mL2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene39–48%45–55%
Humulene23–26%9–14%
Caryophyllene6–8%6–10%
Farnesene0–2%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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