AmarillovsHerald

Amarillo (aroma) and Herald (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

Herald

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–13%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

1–1.9 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Amarillo

  • 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 Herald

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusOrangeGrapefruit

Only in Amarillo

FloralSpicyTropicalLemonMelonApricotPeachDank

Only in Herald

Clean

Property

PropertyAmarilloHerald
Alpha acid7–11%9–13%
Beta acid5.5–8%4.5–5.5%
Co-humulone21–24%35–37%
Total oil1–2.3 mL1–1.9 mL
Myrcene40–70%39–41%
Humulene19–24%14–16%
Caryophyllene7–10%6–8%
Farnesene6–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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