AmarillovsColumbia

Amarillo (aroma) and Columbia (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

Columbia

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–9%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2 mL

United States

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 Columbia

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusLemon

Only in Amarillo

FloralSpicyTropicalOrangeMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Only in Columbia

PineappleNoblePungent

Property

PropertyAmarilloColumbia
Alpha acid7–11%5–9%
Beta acid5.5–8%3–4%
Co-humulone21–24%40%
Total oil1–2.3 mL1–2 mL
Myrcene40–70%45–55%
Humulene19–24%15–19%
Caryophyllene7–10%9–12%
Farnesene6–9%3–5%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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