AmarillovsWhitbread Golding Variety (WGV)

Amarillo (aroma) and Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV) (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

Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5.4–7.7%

Beta acid

2–3.5%

Total oil

0.8–1.2 mL

United Kingdom

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
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Amarillo

SpicyTropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Only in Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)

EarthySweetHerbal

Property

PropertyAmarilloWhitbread Golding Variety (WGV)
Alpha acid7–11%5.4–7.7%
Beta acid5.5–8%2–3.5%
Co-humulone21–24%35–43%
Total oil1–2.3 mL0.8–1.2 mL
Myrcene40–70%19–27%
Humulene19–24%35–42%
Caryophyllene7–10%11–15%
Farnesene6–9%1–2%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeAromaDual purpose

Related comparisons