AhhhromavsXJA2/436

Ahhhroma (dual purpose) and XJA2/436 (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Ahhhroma

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

15.4–18.8%

Beta acid

6–9%

Total oil

2.1–4 mL

United States

XJA2/436

Bittering

Alpha acid

11.5–16.4%

Beta acid

7.8–8.4%

Total oil

1.1–1.7 mL

South Africa

Key differences

When to pick Ahhhroma

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick XJA2/436

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Ahhhroma

TangerinePineappleLimeMangoCinnamonPear

Only in XJA2/436

LemonZestPapayaCataloupeGooseberryResinCitrusBlueberry

Property

PropertyAhhhromaXJA2/436
Alpha acid15.4–18.8%11.5–16.4%
Beta acid6–9%7.8–8.4%
Co-humulone34–35%29–30%
Total oil2.1–4 mL1.1–1.7 mL
Myrcene55–56%18–30%
Humulene12–13%21–35%
Caryophyllene6–7%11–13%
Farnesene0–1%8–18%
OriginUnited StatesSouth Africa
PurposeDual purposeBittering

Related comparisons