Brewer's Gold (GR)vsAhtanum
Brewer's Gold (GR) (bittering) and Ahtanum (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Brewer's Gold (GR)
Alpha acid
4.5–7.8%
Beta acid
2.9–3.7%
Total oil
0.8–2.2 mL
Germany
Ahtanum
Alpha acid
3.5–6.5%
Beta acid
4–6.5%
Total oil
0.5–1.7 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Brewer's Gold (GR)
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Ahtanum
- 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
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Brewer's Gold (GR)
Black currantSpicy
Only in Ahtanum
CitrusGrapefruitGeraniumPineEarthyFloralCedarLemon
Property
| Property | Brewer's Gold (GR) | Ahtanum |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4.5–7.8% | 3.5–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 2.9–3.7% | 4–6.5% |
| Co-humulone | 39–48% | 30–35% |
| Total oil | 0.8–2.2 mL | 0.5–1.7 mL |
| Myrcene | 40–50% | 45–55% |
| Humulene | 29–31% | 15–22% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–8% | 9–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |