BullionvsTarget

Bullion (dual purpose) and Target (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Bullion

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5.3–12.5%

Beta acid

4.5–6.5%

Total oil

1–2 mL

United States

Target

Bittering

Alpha acid

8.5–13.5%

Beta acid

4.3–5.7%

Total oil

1–1.4 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Bullion

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Target

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Bullion

Black currant

Only in Target

CitrusMarmaladeSagePepper

Property

PropertyBullionTarget
Alpha acid5.3–12.5%8.5–13.5%
Beta acid4.5–6.5%4.3–5.7%
Co-humulone47–50%35–40%
Total oil1–2 mL1–1.4 mL
Myrcene40–55%45–55%
Humulene15–25%17–23%
Caryophyllene9–14%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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