Bitter GoldvsZythos
Bitter Gold and Zythos are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Bitter Gold
Alpha acid
12–18.8%
Beta acid
4.5–8%
Total oil
0.8–3.9 mL
United States
Zythos
Alpha acid
10–12.5%
Beta acid
4.7–6.2%
Total oil
0.7–1.2 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
When to pick Zythos
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
TropicalGrapefruitFloral
Only in Bitter Gold
Stone fruitPearWatermelonGrassy
Only in Zythos
TangerineCitrusPine
Property
| Property | Bitter Gold | Zythos |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–18.8% | 10–12.5% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8% | 4.7–6.2% |
| Co-humulone | 36–41% | 28–31% |
| Total oil | 0.8–3.9 mL | 0.7–1.2 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–68% | 30–50% |
| Humulene | 7–18% | 14–23% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–11% | 7–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–2% | 1–3% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |