AhtanumvsSaaz (US)

Ahtanum and Saaz (US) 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

Saaz (US)

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–4.5%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

0.5–1 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Ahtanum

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • 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 Saaz (US)

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Earthy

Only in Ahtanum

CitrusGrapefruitGeraniumPineFloralCedarLemon

Only in Saaz (US)

SlightlyNoble

Property

PropertyAhtanumSaaz (US)
Alpha acid3.5–6.5%3–4.5%
Beta acid4–6.5%3–4.5%
Co-humulone30–35%24–28%
Total oil0.5–1.7 mL0.5–1 mL
Myrcene45–55%25–30%
Humulene15–22%35–40%
Caryophyllene9–12%9–11%
Farnesene0–1%9–13%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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