AhtanumvsSaphir

Ahtanum and Saphir 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

Saphir

Aroma

Alpha acid

2–4.5%

Beta acid

4–7%

Total oil

0.8–1.4 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Ahtanum

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Saphir

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Ahtanum

CitrusGrapefruitGeraniumPineEarthyCedarLemon

Only in Saphir

SpicyFruityTangerine

Property

PropertyAhtanumSaphir
Alpha acid3.5–6.5%2–4.5%
Beta acid4–6.5%4–7%
Co-humulone30–35%12–17%
Total oil0.5–1.7 mL0.8–1.4 mL
Myrcene45–55%25–40%
Humulene15–22%20–30%
Caryophyllene9–12%9–14%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeAromaAroma

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