AmarillovsPahto

Amarillo (aroma) and Pahto (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

Pahto

Bittering

Alpha acid

17–20%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

1–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Amarillo

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Pahto

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Amarillo

FloralSpicyTropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Only in Pahto

NeutralHerbalEarthyCleanSmooth

Property

PropertyAmarilloPahto
Alpha acid7–11%17–20%
Beta acid5.5–8%4.5–6%
Co-humulone21–24%26–32%
Total oil1–2.3 mL1–2.5 mL
Myrcene40–70%58–72%
Humulene19–24%8–11%
Caryophyllene7–10%3–6%
Farnesene6–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaBittering

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