AdmiralvsOlympic

Admiral (bittering) and Olympic (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

Olympic

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10.6–13.8%

Beta acid

3.8–6.1%

Total oil

0.86–2.55 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 Olympic

  • 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

Citrus

Only in Admiral

OrangeTeaFreshPineResinHerbal

Only in Olympic

Spicy

Property

PropertyAdmiralOlympic
Alpha acid13–16.2%10.6–13.8%
Beta acid4.8–6.1%3.8–6.1%
Co-humulone37–45%31%
Total oil1–1.7 mL0.86–2.55 mL
Myrcene39–48%45–55%
Humulene23–26%9–13%
Caryophyllene6–8%7–12%
Farnesene0–2%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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