ApollovsChinook

Apollo (bittering) and Chinook (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

Chinook

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–15%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Apollo

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Chinook

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

GrapefruitPineResinCannabisDank

Only in Apollo

CitrusOrangeLimeLemon

Only in Chinook

Spicy

Property

PropertyApolloChinook
Alpha acid15–20.5%11.5–15%
Beta acid5.5–8%3–4%
Co-humulone23–28%27–35%
Total oil0.8–2.5 mL1–2.7 mL
Myrcene30–50%20–30%
Humulene20–35%18–24%
Caryophyllene14–20%9–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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