AzaccavsDefender

Azacca (dual purpose) and Defender (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Azacca

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14–16%

Beta acid

4–5.5%

Total oil

1.6–2.5 mL

United States

Defender

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.3–6%

Beta acid

1.1–2.5%

Total oil

0.28–0.98 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Azacca

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Defender

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Azacca

MangoPapayaOrangeGrapefruitLemonSpicyPineappleGrassyTropicalCitrus

Only in Defender

Pleasant

Property

PropertyAzaccaDefender
Alpha acid14–16%3.3–6%
Beta acid4–5.5%1.1–2.5%
Co-humulone38–45%23–32%
Total oil1.6–2.5 mL0.28–0.98 mL
Myrcene46–55%30–32%
Humulene14–18%34–36%
Caryophyllene8–12%13–15%
Farnesene0–1%3–4%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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