AmarillovsYakima Cluster

Amarillo (aroma) and Yakima Cluster (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

Yakima Cluster

Bittering

Alpha acid

4.4–9.8%

Beta acid

3–6.1%

Total oil

0.24–0.9 mL

United States

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 Yakima Cluster

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Amarillo

SpicyTropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Only in Yakima Cluster

EarthySweetFruity

Property

PropertyAmarilloYakima Cluster
Alpha acid7–11%4.4–9.8%
Beta acid5.5–8%3–6.1%
Co-humulone21–24%39–42%
Total oil1–2.3 mL0.24–0.9 mL
Myrcene40–70%45–55%
Humulene19–24%17–19%
Caryophyllene7–10%6–7%
Farnesene6–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaBittering

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