CentennialvsApollo

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

Centennial

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–12%

Beta acid

3.5–5.5%

Total oil

1–3 mL

United States

Apollo

Bittering

Alpha acid

15–20.5%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

0.8–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Centennial

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Apollo

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

PineCitrusGrapefruit

Only in Centennial

FloralTangerine

Only in Apollo

OrangeResinCannabisLimeLemonDank

Property

PropertyCentennialApollo
Alpha acid7–12%15–20.5%
Beta acid3.5–5.5%5.5–8%
Co-humulone23–30%23–28%
Total oil1–3 mL0.8–2.5 mL
Myrcene55–65%30–50%
Humulene10–20%20–35%
Caryophyllene5–7%14–20%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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