AhtanumvsContessa

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

Ahtanum

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.5–6.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

0.5–1.7 mL

United States

Contessa

Bittering

Alpha acid

3–5%

Beta acid

5–7.4%

Total oil

0.8–1.9 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Ahtanum

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Contessa

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Ahtanum

CitrusGrapefruitGeraniumPineEarthyCedarLemon

Only in Contessa

GreenLemongrassPear

Property

PropertyAhtanumContessa
Alpha acid3.5–6.5%3–5%
Beta acid4–6.5%5–7.4%
Co-humulone30–35%29–32%
Total oil0.5–1.7 mL0.8–1.9 mL
Myrcene45–55%-
Humulene15–22%-
Caryophyllene9–12%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaBittering

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