AhtanumvsMcKenzie

Ahtanum and McKenzie 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

McKenzie

Aroma

Alpha acid

9–11%

Beta acid

8–9%

Total oil

2–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Ahtanum

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

When to pick McKenzie

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

GrapefruitPineFloralLemon

Only in Ahtanum

CitrusGeraniumEarthyCedar

Only in McKenzie

NectarineMelonThymeStone fruitDank

Property

PropertyAhtanumMcKenzie
Alpha acid3.5–6.5%9–11%
Beta acid4–6.5%8–9%
Co-humulone30–35%-
Total oil0.5–1.7 mL2–3 mL
Myrcene45–55%-
Humulene15–22%-
Caryophyllene9–12%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

Related comparisons