AmarillovsEl Dorado

Amarillo (aroma) and El Dorado (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

El Dorado

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

13–17%

Beta acid

6.4–8%

Total oil

2.5–3.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Amarillo

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

When to pick El Dorado

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Tropical

Only in Amarillo

FloralSpicyCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Only in El Dorado

FruityPearWatermelonCandyStone fruit

Property

PropertyAmarilloEl Dorado
Alpha acid7–11%13–17%
Beta acid5.5–8%6.4–8%
Co-humulone21–24%28–33%
Total oil1–2.3 mL2.5–3.3 mL
Myrcene40–70%55–60%
Humulene19–24%10–15%
Caryophyllene7–10%6–8%
Farnesene6–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

Related comparisons