Bitter GoldvsMount Hood

Bitter Gold (dual purpose) and Mount Hood (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

Mount Hood

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.9–8%

Beta acid

5–8%

Total oil

1.2–1.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Bitter Gold

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Mount Hood

  • 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 Mount Hood

NobleHerbalPungentSpicy

Property

PropertyBitter GoldMount Hood
Alpha acid12–18.8%3.9–8%
Beta acid4.5–8%5–8%
Co-humulone36–41%21–23%
Total oil0.8–3.9 mL1.2–1.7 mL
Myrcene45–68%30–40%
Humulene7–18%12–38%
Caryophyllene7–11%7–16%
Farnesene0–2%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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