BergamotvsXJA2/436

Bergamot (dual purpose) and XJA2/436 (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Bergamot

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8–10.7%

Beta acid

6–8.9%

Total oil

-

United States

XJA2/436

Bittering

Alpha acid

11.5–16.4%

Beta acid

7.8–8.4%

Total oil

1.1–1.7 mL

South Africa

Key differences

When to pick Bergamot

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick XJA2/436

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Zest

Only in Bergamot

OrangeMangoDankCherryLemongrassLimeJuniperTropicalPepperFloral

Only in XJA2/436

LemonPapayaCataloupeGooseberryResinCitrusBlueberry

Property

PropertyBergamotXJA2/436
Alpha acid8–10.7%11.5–16.4%
Beta acid6–8.9%7.8–8.4%
Co-humulone39–40%29–30%
Total oil-1.1–1.7 mL
Myrcene44–45%18–30%
Humulene14–15%21–35%
Caryophyllene9–10%11–13%
Farnesene0–1%8–18%
OriginUnited StatesSouth Africa
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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