Bramling CrossvsAmarillo

Bramling Cross (dual purpose) and Amarillo (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Bramling Cross

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–8%

Beta acid

2.3–3.2%

Total oil

0.7–1.2 mL

United Kingdom

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Bramling Cross

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Amarillo

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

LemonSpicy

Only in Bramling Cross

Black currantLoganberryVanilla

Only in Amarillo

FloralTropicalCitrusOrangeMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Property

PropertyBramling CrossAmarillo
Alpha acid5–8%7–11%
Beta acid2.3–3.2%5.5–8%
Co-humulone33–35%21–24%
Total oil0.7–1.2 mL1–2.3 mL
Myrcene35–37%40–70%
Humulene29–31%19–24%
Caryophyllene14–16%7–10%
Farnesene0–2%6–9%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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