BravovsAmarillo

Bravo (bittering) and Amarillo (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Bravo

Bittering

Alpha acid

13–18%

Beta acid

3–5.5%

Total oil

1.6–3.5 mL

United States

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Bravo

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Amarillo

  • 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

OrangeFloral

Only in Bravo

VanillaLimeFruity

Only in Amarillo

SpicyTropicalCitrusLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Property

PropertyBravoAmarillo
Alpha acid13–18%7–11%
Beta acid3–5.5%5.5–8%
Co-humulone28–35%21–24%
Total oil1.6–3.5 mL1–2.3 mL
Myrcene25–60%40–70%
Humulene8–20%19–24%
Caryophyllene6–8%7–10%
Farnesene0–1%6–9%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringAroma

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