Brewer's Gold (GR)vsColumbus
Brewer's Gold (GR) (bittering) and Columbus (dual purpose) 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
Columbus
Alpha acid
14–18%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Brewer's Gold (GR)
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Columbus
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- 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
Black currantSpicy
Only in Brewer's Gold (GR)
-
Only in Columbus
EarthyLicoriceCurryCitrusFloralPungentDankCannabis
Property
| Property | Brewer's Gold (GR) | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4.5–7.8% | 14–18% |
| Beta acid | 2.9–3.7% | 4.5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 39–48% | 28–35% |
| Total oil | 0.8–2.2 mL | 2.5–4.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 40–50% | 45–55% |
| Humulene | 29–31% | 9–14% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–8% | 6–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |