Bramling CrossvsNorthern Brewer (GR)
Bramling Cross (dual purpose) and Northern Brewer (GR) (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Bramling Cross
Alpha acid
5–8%
Beta acid
2.3–3.2%
Total oil
0.7–1.2 mL
United Kingdom
Northern Brewer (GR)
Alpha acid
6–10%
Beta acid
3–5%
Total oil
1–2.1 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Bramling Cross
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Northern Brewer (GR)
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Bramling Cross
Black currantLoganberryVanillaLemonSpicy
Only in Northern Brewer (GR)
MintGrassyPine
Property
| Property | Bramling Cross | Northern Brewer (GR) |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5–8% | 6–10% |
| Beta acid | 2.3–3.2% | 3–5% |
| Co-humulone | 33–35% | 27–33% |
| Total oil | 0.7–1.2 mL | 1–2.1 mL |
| Myrcene | 35–37% | 25–45% |
| Humulene | 29–31% | 35–50% |
| Caryophyllene | 14–16% | 10–20% |
| Farnesene | 0–2% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | Germany |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |
Bullion