AmarillovsSun

Amarillo (aroma) and Sun (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

Sun

Bittering

Alpha acid

12–16%

Beta acid

4.5–7%

Total oil

-

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 Sun

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Amarillo

FloralSpicyTropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Only in Sun

Herbal

Property

PropertyAmarilloSun
Alpha acid7–11%12–16%
Beta acid5.5–8%4.5–7%
Co-humulone21–24%30–40%
Total oil1–2.3 mL-
Myrcene40–70%-
Humulene19–24%-
Caryophyllene7–10%-
Farnesene6–9%-
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaBittering

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