Astra
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1–3 mL
Australia
Columbus
Alpha acid
14–18%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Astra
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick Columbus
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Astra
TropicalSweetPeachWhiteMelonGrassyGrapefruitHoney
Only in Columbus
EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyCitrusFloralPungentDankCannabis
Property
| Property | Astra | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 7–10% | 14–18% |
| Beta acid | 4–6% | 4.5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 26–28% | 28–35% |
| Total oil | 1–3 mL | 2.5–4.5 mL |
| Myrcene | - | 45–55% |
| Humulene | 6–8% | 9–14% |
| Caryophyllene | 2–3% | 6–10% |
| Farnesene | - | 0–1% |
| Origin | Australia | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |