AdmiralvsErnest

Admiral (bittering) and Ernest (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

Ernest

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.4–6.3%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

0.7–1.1 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Admiral

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

When to pick Ernest

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Herbal

Only in Admiral

OrangeTeaFreshPineCitrusResin

Only in Ernest

GrassySpicyStone fruit

Property

PropertyAdmiralErnest
Alpha acid13–16.2%4.4–6.3%
Beta acid4.8–6.1%4.5–5.5%
Co-humulone37–45%50–55%
Total oil1–1.7 mL0.7–1.1 mL
Myrcene39–48%50–60%
Humulene23–26%8–12%
Caryophyllene6–8%0–1%
Farnesene0–2%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited Kingdom
PurposeBitteringAroma

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