AmarillovsMelba

Amarillo and Melba 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

Melba

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–10%

Beta acid

2.5–5%

Total oil

2–4 mL

Australia

Key differences

When to pick Amarillo

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Melba

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

SpicyCitrusGrapefruit

Only in Amarillo

FloralTropicalOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachDank

Only in Melba

Passion fruit

Property

PropertyAmarilloMelba
Alpha acid7–11%7–10%
Beta acid5.5–8%2.5–5%
Co-humulone21–24%25–35%
Total oil1–2.3 mL2–4 mL
Myrcene40–70%-
Humulene19–24%-
Caryophyllene7–10%-
Farnesene6–9%-
OriginUnited StatesAustralia
PurposeAromaAroma

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