AgnusvsGaia

Agnus and Gaia are popular bittering hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Agnus

Bittering

Alpha acid

9–14%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

2–3 mL

Czech Republic

Gaia

Bittering

Alpha acid

12–15%

Beta acid

5–10%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

Czech Republic

Key differences

When to pick Agnus

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Gaia

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Agnus

LavenderLeatherTobaccoCitrus

Only in Gaia

Hoppy

Property

PropertyAgnusGaia
Alpha acid9–14%12–15%
Beta acid4–6.5%5–10%
Co-humulone29–38%20–29%
Total oil2–3 mL1.5–2.5 mL
Myrcene40–55%23–37%
Humulene15–20%2–4%
Caryophyllene-9–12%
Farnesene0–1%5–7%
OriginCzech RepublicCzech Republic
PurposeBitteringBittering

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