Brewer's Gold (US)vsAmarillo

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

Brewer's Gold (US)

Bittering

Alpha acid

8–11%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

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 (US)

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Amarillo

  • 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 (US)

Black currant

Only in Amarillo

FloralTropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Property

PropertyBrewer's Gold (US)Amarillo
Alpha acid8–11%7–11%
Beta acid4–6.5%5.5–8%
Co-humulone40–48%21–24%
Total oil1.5–3 mL1–2.3 mL
Myrcene40–60%40–70%
Humulene12–18%19–24%
Caryophyllene8–12%7–10%
Farnesene0–1%6–9%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringAroma

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