AdmiralvsNorthdown

Admiral (bittering) and Northdown (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

Northdown

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–10%

Beta acid

4–5.5%

Total oil

1.2–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Admiral

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

When to pick Northdown

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Pine

Only in Admiral

OrangeTeaFreshCitrusResinHerbal

Only in Northdown

FloralCedarBerrySpicy

Property

PropertyAdmiralNorthdown
Alpha acid13–16.2%7–10%
Beta acid4.8–6.1%4–5.5%
Co-humulone37–45%24–32%
Total oil1–1.7 mL1.2–2.5 mL
Myrcene39–48%23–29%
Humulene23–26%40–45%
Caryophyllene6–8%13–17%
Farnesene0–2%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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