AhtanumvsDefender

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

Ahtanum

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.5–6.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

0.5–1.7 mL

United States

Defender

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.3–6%

Beta acid

1.1–2.5%

Total oil

0.28–0.98 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Ahtanum

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Defender

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Ahtanum

CitrusGrapefruitGeraniumPineEarthyFloralCedarLemon

Only in Defender

Pleasant

Property

PropertyAhtanumDefender
Alpha acid3.5–6.5%3.3–6%
Beta acid4–6.5%1.1–2.5%
Co-humulone30–35%23–32%
Total oil0.5–1.7 mL0.28–0.98 mL
Myrcene45–55%30–32%
Humulene15–22%34–36%
Caryophyllene9–12%13–15%
Farnesene0–1%3–4%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeAromaAroma

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