AstravsMount Hood
Astra (dual purpose) and Mount Hood (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Astra
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1–3 mL
Australia
Mount Hood
Alpha acid
3.9–8%
Beta acid
5–8%
Total oil
1.2–1.7 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Astra
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Mount Hood
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Astra
TropicalSweetPeachWhiteMelonGrassyGrapefruitHoney
Only in Mount Hood
NobleHerbalPungentSpicy
Property
| Property | Astra | Mount Hood |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 7–10% | 3.9–8% |
| Beta acid | 4–6% | 5–8% |
| Co-humulone | 26–28% | 21–23% |
| Total oil | 1–3 mL | 1.2–1.7 mL |
| Myrcene | - | 30–40% |
| Humulene | 6–8% | 12–38% |
| Caryophyllene | 2–3% | 7–16% |
| Farnesene | - | 0–1% |
| Origin | Australia | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Hersbrucker