AuroravsContessa

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

Aurora

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6.5–13%

Beta acid

2.7–5.5%

Total oil

0.9–1.8 mL

Slovenia

Contessa

Bittering

Alpha acid

3–5%

Beta acid

5–7.4%

Total oil

0.8–1.9 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Aurora

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Contessa

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralLemongrass

Only in Aurora

SpicyNoble

Only in Contessa

GreenPear

Property

PropertyAuroraContessa
Alpha acid6.5–13%3–5%
Beta acid2.7–5.5%5–7.4%
Co-humulone20–26%29–32%
Total oil0.9–1.8 mL0.8–1.9 mL
Myrcene20–25%-
Humulene20–25%-
Caryophyllene6–9%-
Farnesene5–10%-
OriginSloveniaUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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