AgnusvsOlympic

Agnus (bittering) and Olympic (dual purpose) 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

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 Agnus

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Olympic

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusSpicy

Only in Agnus

LavenderLeatherTobacco

Only in Olympic

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Property

PropertyAgnusOlympic
Alpha acid9–14%10.6–13.8%
Beta acid4–6.5%3.8–6.1%
Co-humulone29–38%31%
Total oil2–3 mL0.86–2.55 mL
Myrcene40–55%45–55%
Humulene15–20%9–13%
Caryophyllene-7–12%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginCzech RepublicUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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