Brewer's Gold (GR)vsAmarillo

Brewer's Gold (GR) (bittering) and Amarillo (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Brewer's Gold (GR)

Bittering

Alpha acid

4.5–7.8%

Beta acid

2.9–3.7%

Total oil

0.8–2.2 mL

Germany

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Brewer's Gold (GR)

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Amarillo

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • 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

Spicy

Only in Brewer's Gold (GR)

Black currant

Only in Amarillo

FloralTropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Property

PropertyBrewer's Gold (GR)Amarillo
Alpha acid4.5–7.8%7–11%
Beta acid2.9–3.7%5.5–8%
Co-humulone39–48%21–24%
Total oil0.8–2.2 mL1–2.3 mL
Myrcene40–50%40–70%
Humulene29–31%19–24%
Caryophyllene7–8%7–10%
Farnesene0–1%6–9%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeBitteringAroma

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