Brewer's Gold (GR)vsChinook

Brewer's Gold (GR) (bittering) and Chinook (dual purpose) 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

Chinook

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–15%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Brewer's Gold (GR)

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Chinook

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Brewer's Gold (GR)

Black currant

Only in Chinook

PineResinGrapefruitDankCannabis

Property

PropertyBrewer's Gold (GR)Chinook
Alpha acid4.5–7.8%11.5–15%
Beta acid2.9–3.7%3–4%
Co-humulone39–48%27–35%
Total oil0.8–2.2 mL1–2.7 mL
Myrcene40–50%20–30%
Humulene29–31%18–24%
Caryophyllene7–8%9–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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