Barbe RougevsAdmiral
Barbe Rouge (aroma) and Admiral (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Barbe Rouge
Alpha acid
3.8–10%
Beta acid
3.3–4.6%
Total oil
1.1–3 mL
France
Admiral
Alpha acid
13–16.2%
Beta acid
4.8–6.1%
Total oil
1–1.7 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Barbe Rouge
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Admiral
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
CitrusOrangeHerbal
Only in Barbe Rouge
KumquatLimeRedcurrantStrawberryRaspberryFloralBerry
Only in Admiral
TeaFreshPineResin
Property
| Property | Barbe Rouge | Admiral |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 3.8–10% | 13–16.2% |
| Beta acid | 3.3–4.6% | 4.8–6.1% |
| Co-humulone | 24–28% | 37–45% |
| Total oil | 1.1–3 mL | 1–1.7 mL |
| Myrcene | 35–60% | 39–48% |
| Humulene | 15–25% | 23–26% |
| Caryophyllene | 2–4% | 6–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–4% | 0–2% |
| Origin | France | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Aroma | Bittering |
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