AgnusvsAmarillo

Agnus (bittering) and Amarillo (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Agnus

Bittering

Alpha acid

9–14%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

2–3 mL

Czech Republic

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Agnus

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

When to pick Amarillo

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusSpicy

Only in Agnus

LavenderLeatherTobacco

Only in Amarillo

FloralTropicalOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Property

PropertyAgnusAmarillo
Alpha acid9–14%7–11%
Beta acid4–6.5%5.5–8%
Co-humulone29–38%21–24%
Total oil2–3 mL1–2.3 mL
Myrcene40–55%40–70%
Humulene15–20%19–24%
Caryophyllene-7–10%
Farnesene0–1%6–9%
OriginCzech RepublicUnited States
PurposeBitteringAroma

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