Bitter GoldvsHallertau Blanc

Bitter Gold (dual purpose) and Hallertau Blanc (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Bitter Gold

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

12–18.8%

Beta acid

4.5–8%

Total oil

0.8–3.9 mL

United States

Hallertau Blanc

Aroma

Alpha acid

9–12%

Beta acid

4–7%

Total oil

0.8–2.2 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Bitter Gold

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Hallertau Blanc

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Bitter Gold

Stone fruitTropicalPearWatermelonGrassyGrapefruitFloral

Only in Hallertau Blanc

PineappleGooseberryWhiteGrapesLemongrassPassion fruitCleanSauvignon

Property

PropertyBitter GoldHallertau Blanc
Alpha acid12–18.8%9–12%
Beta acid4.5–8%4–7%
Co-humulone36–41%22–35%
Total oil0.8–3.9 mL0.8–2.2 mL
Myrcene45–68%50–75%
Humulene7–18%0–3%
Caryophyllene7–11%0–2%
Farnesene0–2%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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