AmarillovsMcKenzie

Amarillo and McKenzie 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

McKenzie

Aroma

Alpha acid

9–11%

Beta acid

8–9%

Total oil

2–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Amarillo

  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick McKenzie

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralLemonMelonGrapefruitDank

Only in Amarillo

SpicyTropicalCitrusOrangeApricotPeach

Only in McKenzie

NectarinePineThymeStone fruit

Property

PropertyAmarilloMcKenzie
Alpha acid7–11%9–11%
Beta acid5.5–8%8–9%
Co-humulone21–24%-
Total oil1–2.3 mL2–3 mL
Myrcene40–70%-
Humulene19–24%-
Caryophyllene7–10%-
Farnesene6–9%-
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

Related comparisons