AdmiralvsDelta

Admiral (bittering) and Delta (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

Delta

Aroma

Alpha acid

5.5–7%

Beta acid

5.5–7%

Total oil

0.5–1.1 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Admiral

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Delta

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Admiral

OrangeTeaFreshPineResinHerbal

Only in Delta

MelonSpicy

Property

PropertyAdmiralDelta
Alpha acid13–16.2%5.5–7%
Beta acid4.8–6.1%5.5–7%
Co-humulone37–45%22–24%
Total oil1–1.7 mL0.5–1.1 mL
Myrcene39–48%25–40%
Humulene23–26%25–35%
Caryophyllene6–8%9–15%
Farnesene0–2%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeBitteringAroma

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