AmarillovsSmooth Cone

Amarillo (aroma) and Smooth Cone (dual purpose) 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

Smooth Cone

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–9.5%

Beta acid

3.4–5.2%

Total oil

0.4–1.14 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Amarillo

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

When to pick Smooth Cone

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Amarillo

FloralSpicyTropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Only in Smooth Cone

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Property

PropertyAmarilloSmooth Cone
Alpha acid7–11%7–9.5%
Beta acid5.5–8%3.4–5.2%
Co-humulone21–24%31%
Total oil1–2.3 mL0.4–1.14 mL
Myrcene40–70%54–56%
Humulene19–24%20–22%
Caryophyllene7–10%5–7%
Farnesene6–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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