BoomerangvsTarget

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

Boomerang

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10–14%

Beta acid

5–10%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

Czech Republic

Target

Bittering

Alpha acid

8.5–13.5%

Beta acid

4.3–5.7%

Total oil

1–1.4 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Boomerang

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Target

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

SpicyCitrus

Only in Boomerang

-

Only in Target

MarmaladeSagePepper

Property

PropertyBoomerangTarget
Alpha acid10–14%8.5–13.5%
Beta acid5–10%4.3–5.7%
Co-humulone27–32%35–40%
Total oil1.5–3 mL1–1.4 mL
Myrcene30–53%45–55%
Humulene17–24%17–23%
Caryophyllene7–11%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginCzech RepublicUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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