CentennialvsBarbe Rouge

Centennial (dual purpose) and Barbe Rouge (aroma) 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

Barbe Rouge

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.8–10%

Beta acid

3.3–4.6%

Total oil

1.1–3 mL

France

Key differences

When to pick Centennial

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Barbe Rouge

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusFloral

Only in Centennial

PineGrapefruitTangerine

Only in Barbe Rouge

KumquatOrangeLimeRedcurrantStrawberryRaspberryBerryHerbal

Property

PropertyCentennialBarbe Rouge
Alpha acid7–12%3.8–10%
Beta acid3.5–5.5%3.3–4.6%
Co-humulone23–30%24–28%
Total oil1–3 mL1.1–3 mL
Myrcene55–65%35–60%
Humulene10–20%15–25%
Caryophyllene5–7%2–4%
Farnesene0–1%0–4%
OriginUnited StatesFrance
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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