CentennialvsEnigma

Centennial (dual purpose) and Enigma (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

Enigma

Aroma

Alpha acid

13.5–19.4%

Beta acid

4.5–7.1%

Total oil

1.8–3 mL

Australia

Key differences

When to pick Centennial

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Enigma

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Centennial

PineCitrusFloralGrapefruitTangerine

Only in Enigma

TropicalBerryStone fruitRaspberryRedcurrantWhite

Property

PropertyCentennialEnigma
Alpha acid7–12%13.5–19.4%
Beta acid3.5–5.5%4.5–7.1%
Co-humulone23–30%37–43%
Total oil1–3 mL1.8–3 mL
Myrcene55–65%23–30%
Humulene10–20%12–19%
Caryophyllene5–7%6–8%
Farnesene0–1%9–12%
OriginUnited StatesAustralia
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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