ApollovsCentennial

Apollo (bittering) and Centennial (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Apollo

Bittering

Alpha acid

15–20.5%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

0.8–2.5 mL

United States

Centennial

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–12%

Beta acid

3.5–5.5%

Total oil

1–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Apollo

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Centennial

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusGrapefruitPine

Only in Apollo

OrangeResinCannabisLimeLemonDank

Only in Centennial

FloralTangerine

Property

PropertyApolloCentennial
Alpha acid15–20.5%7–12%
Beta acid5.5–8%3.5–5.5%
Co-humulone23–28%23–30%
Total oil0.8–2.5 mL1–3 mL
Myrcene30–50%55–65%
Humulene20–35%10–20%
Caryophyllene14–20%5–7%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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