African QueenvsTillicum
African Queen (dual purpose) and Tillicum (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
African Queen
Alpha acid
10–17%
Beta acid
3.9–6.2%
Total oil
0.7–1.5 mL
South Africa
Tillicum
Alpha acid
13.5–15.5%
Beta acid
9.5–11.5%
Total oil
-
United States
Key differences
When to pick African Queen
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Tillicum
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
CitrusStone fruit
Only in African Queen
DankBlueberryBlack currantGooseberryBubblegumCassisLemongrassChiliesGazpacho
Only in Tillicum
-
Property
| Property | African Queen | Tillicum |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 10–17% | 13.5–15.5% |
| Beta acid | 3.9–6.2% | 9.5–11.5% |
| Co-humulone | 22–30% | 35% |
| Total oil | 0.7–1.5 mL | - |
| Myrcene | 20–29% | 39–41% |
| Humulene | 21–30% | 13–15% |
| Caryophyllene | 10–17% | 7–8% |
| Farnesene | 5–7% | 0–1% |
| Origin | South Africa | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |