AmarillovsGaia

Amarillo (aroma) and Gaia (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

Gaia

Bittering

Alpha acid

12–15%

Beta acid

5–10%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

Czech Republic

Key differences

When to pick Amarillo

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Gaia

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Amarillo

FloralTropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Only in Gaia

Hoppy

Property

PropertyAmarilloGaia
Alpha acid7–11%12–15%
Beta acid5.5–8%5–10%
Co-humulone21–24%20–29%
Total oil1–2.3 mL1.5–2.5 mL
Myrcene40–70%23–37%
Humulene19–24%2–4%
Caryophyllene7–10%9–12%
Farnesene6–9%5–7%
OriginUnited StatesCzech Republic
PurposeAromaBittering

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