AmarillovsBramling Cross

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

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Bramling Cross

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–8%

Beta acid

2.3–3.2%

Total oil

0.7–1.2 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Amarillo

  • 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
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Bramling Cross

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

SpicyLemon

Only in Amarillo

FloralTropicalCitrusOrangeMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Only in Bramling Cross

Black currantLoganberryVanilla

Property

PropertyAmarilloBramling Cross
Alpha acid7–11%5–8%
Beta acid5.5–8%2.3–3.2%
Co-humulone21–24%33–35%
Total oil1–2.3 mL0.7–1.2 mL
Myrcene40–70%35–37%
Humulene19–24%29–31%
Caryophyllene7–10%14–16%
Farnesene6–9%0–2%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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