Bramling CrossvsColumbus
Bramling Cross and Columbus are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Bramling Cross
Alpha acid
5–8%
Beta acid
2.3–3.2%
Total oil
0.7–1.2 mL
United Kingdom
Columbus
Alpha acid
14–18%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Bramling Cross
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
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Black currantSpicy
Only in Bramling Cross
LoganberryVanillaLemon
Only in Columbus
EarthyLicoriceCurryCitrusFloralPungentDankCannabis
Property
| Property | Bramling Cross | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5–8% | 14–18% |
| Beta acid | 2.3–3.2% | 4.5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 33–35% | 28–35% |
| Total oil | 0.7–1.2 mL | 2.5–4.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 35–37% | 45–55% |
| Humulene | 29–31% | 9–14% |
| Caryophyllene | 14–16% | 6–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–2% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |