AmarillovsBrewer's Gold (GR)

Amarillo (aroma) and Brewer's Gold (GR) (bittering) 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

Brewer's Gold (GR)

Bittering

Alpha acid

4.5–7.8%

Beta acid

2.9–3.7%

Total oil

0.8–2.2 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Amarillo

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • 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 Brewer's Gold (GR)

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Amarillo

FloralTropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Only in Brewer's Gold (GR)

Black currant

Property

PropertyAmarilloBrewer's Gold (GR)
Alpha acid7–11%4.5–7.8%
Beta acid5.5–8%2.9–3.7%
Co-humulone21–24%39–48%
Total oil1–2.3 mL0.8–2.2 mL
Myrcene40–70%40–50%
Humulene19–24%29–31%
Caryophyllene7–10%7–8%
Farnesene6–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeAromaBittering

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