AmarillovsPilot

Amarillo (aroma) and Pilot (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

Pilot

Bittering

Alpha acid

8–11.5%

Beta acid

3.3–5%

Total oil

0.8–1.5 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Amarillo

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • 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 Pilot

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

SpicyLemon

Only in Amarillo

FloralTropicalCitrusOrangeMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Only in Pilot

Marmalade

Property

PropertyAmarilloPilot
Alpha acid7–11%8–11.5%
Beta acid5.5–8%3.3–5%
Co-humulone21–24%28–37%
Total oil1–2.3 mL0.8–1.5 mL
Myrcene40–70%35–40%
Humulene19–24%3–6%
Caryophyllene7–10%-
Farnesene6–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeAromaBittering

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