BannervsColumbus

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

Banner

Bittering

Alpha acid

8.4–13.1%

Beta acid

5.3–8%

Total oil

-

United States

Columbus

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14–18%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Banner

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

When to pick Columbus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Banner

-

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyCitrusFloralPungentDankCannabis

Property

PropertyBannerColumbus
Alpha acid8.4–13.1%14–18%
Beta acid5.3–8%4.5–6%
Co-humulone34%28–35%
Total oil-2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene-45–55%
Humulene-9–14%
Caryophyllene-6–10%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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