Bramling CrossvsNorthern Brewer (US)
Bramling Cross (dual purpose) and Northern Brewer (US) (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 (US)
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
3–5.5%
Total oil
1–2 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Bramling Cross
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Northern Brewer (US)
- 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
Shared aromas
Black currant
Only in Bramling Cross
LoganberryVanillaLemonSpicy
Only in Northern Brewer (US)
PineWoodyMint
Property
| Property | Bramling Cross | Northern Brewer (US) |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5–8% | 7–10% |
| Beta acid | 2.3–3.2% | 3–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 33–35% | 27–34% |
| Total oil | 0.7–1.2 mL | 1–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 35–37% | 35–45% |
| Humulene | 29–31% | 27–31% |
| Caryophyllene | 14–16% | 11–15% |
| Farnesene | 0–2% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |