AhtanumvsXJA2/436

Ahtanum (aroma) and XJA2/436 (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

XJA2/436

Bittering

Alpha acid

11.5–16.4%

Beta acid

7.8–8.4%

Total oil

1.1–1.7 mL

South Africa

Key differences

When to pick Ahtanum

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick XJA2/436

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusLemon

Only in Ahtanum

GrapefruitGeraniumPineEarthyFloralCedar

Only in XJA2/436

ZestPapayaCataloupeGooseberryResinBlueberry

Property

PropertyAhtanumXJA2/436
Alpha acid3.5–6.5%11.5–16.4%
Beta acid4–6.5%7.8–8.4%
Co-humulone30–35%29–30%
Total oil0.5–1.7 mL1.1–1.7 mL
Myrcene45–55%18–30%
Humulene15–22%21–35%
Caryophyllene9–12%11–13%
Farnesene0–1%8–18%
OriginUnited StatesSouth Africa
PurposeAromaBittering

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