AltusvsNorthdown

Altus (aroma) and Northdown (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Altus

Aroma

Alpha acid

15–18.5%

Beta acid

4–5.2%

Total oil

3–4.4 mL

United States

Northdown

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–10%

Beta acid

4–5.5%

Total oil

1.2–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Altus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Northdown

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Altus

ResinTangerine

Only in Northdown

FloralPineCedarBerry

Property

PropertyAltusNorthdown
Alpha acid15–18.5%7–10%
Beta acid4–5.2%4–5.5%
Co-humulone26–29%24–32%
Total oil3–4.4 mL1.2–2.5 mL
Myrcene-23–29%
Humulene-40–45%
Caryophyllene-13–17%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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