BravovsBelma

Bravo (bittering) and Belma (dual purpose) 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

Belma

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8.5–12.1%

Beta acid

4–8%

Total oil

1–2.5 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 Belma

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Orange

Only in Bravo

VanillaFloralLimeFruity

Only in Belma

MelonStrawberryPineappleGrapefruitBerryCitrusTropical

Property

PropertyBravoBelma
Alpha acid13–18%8.5–12.1%
Beta acid3–5.5%4–8%
Co-humulone28–35%-
Total oil1.6–3.5 mL1–2.5 mL
Myrcene25–60%65–68%
Humulene8–20%-
Caryophyllene6–8%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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