AmarillovsGolding

Amarillo and Golding are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Golding

Aroma

Alpha acid

4–6%

Beta acid

2–3%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United States

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
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Golding

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Amarillo

SpicyTropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Only in Golding

DelicateSweet

Property

PropertyAmarilloGolding
Alpha acid7–11%4–6%
Beta acid5.5–8%2–3%
Co-humulone21–24%20%
Total oil1–2.3 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene40–70%25–35%
Humulene19–24%35–45%
Caryophyllene7–10%13–16%
Farnesene6–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

Related comparisons