BelmavsBravo

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

Belma

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8.5–12.1%

Beta acid

4–8%

Total oil

1–2.5 mL

United States

Bravo

Bittering

Alpha acid

13–18%

Beta acid

3–5.5%

Total oil

1.6–3.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Belma

  • 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 Bravo

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Orange

Only in Belma

MelonStrawberryPineappleGrapefruitBerryCitrusTropical

Only in Bravo

VanillaFloralLimeFruity

Property

PropertyBelmaBravo
Alpha acid8.5–12.1%13–18%
Beta acid4–8%3–5.5%
Co-humulone-28–35%
Total oil1–2.5 mL1.6–3.5 mL
Myrcene65–68%25–60%
Humulene-8–20%
Caryophyllene-6–8%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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