AmarillovsSaphir

Amarillo and Saphir 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

Saphir

Aroma

Alpha acid

2–4.5%

Beta acid

4–7%

Total oil

0.8–1.4 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Amarillo

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Saphir

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralSpicy

Only in Amarillo

TropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Only in Saphir

FruityTangerine

Property

PropertyAmarilloSaphir
Alpha acid7–11%2–4.5%
Beta acid5.5–8%4–7%
Co-humulone21–24%12–17%
Total oil1–2.3 mL0.8–1.4 mL
Myrcene40–70%25–40%
Humulene19–24%20–30%
Caryophyllene7–10%9–14%
Farnesene6–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeAromaAroma

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