AmarillovsTarget

Amarillo (aroma) and Target (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

Target

Bittering

Alpha acid

8.5–13.5%

Beta acid

4.3–5.7%

Total oil

1–1.4 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 Target

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

SpicyCitrus

Only in Amarillo

FloralTropicalOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Only in Target

MarmaladeSagePepper

Property

PropertyAmarilloTarget
Alpha acid7–11%8.5–13.5%
Beta acid5.5–8%4.3–5.7%
Co-humulone21–24%35–40%
Total oil1–2.3 mL1–1.4 mL
Myrcene40–70%45–55%
Humulene19–24%17–23%
Caryophyllene7–10%8–10%
Farnesene6–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeAromaBittering

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