CalypsovsColumbus

Calypso and Columbus are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Calypso

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

12–16%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

United States

Columbus

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14–18%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Calypso

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

When to pick Columbus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Calypso

FruityApplePearStone fruitLimePeach

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyFloralPungentDankCannabis

Property

PropertyCalypsoColumbus
Alpha acid12–16%14–18%
Beta acid5–6%4.5–6%
Co-humulone38–42%28–35%
Total oil1.5–2.5 mL2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene30–45%45–55%
Humulene20–35%9–14%
Caryophyllene9–15%6–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

Related comparisons