BorvsColumbus

Bor and Columbus are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Bor

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6–9%

Beta acid

3–5.5%

Total oil

1–2 mL

Czech Republic

Columbus

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14–18%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Bor

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

When to pick Columbus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Bor

Pine

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurryCitrusFloralPungentDankCannabis

Property

PropertyBorColumbus
Alpha acid6–9%14–18%
Beta acid3–5.5%4.5–6%
Co-humulone23–26%28–35%
Total oil1–2 mL2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene-45–55%
Humulene-9–14%
Caryophyllene-6–10%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginCzech RepublicUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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