CentennialvsErnest

Centennial (dual purpose) and Ernest (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

Ernest

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.4–6.3%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

0.7–1.1 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Centennial

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

When to pick Ernest

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Centennial

PineCitrusFloralGrapefruitTangerine

Only in Ernest

GrassyHerbalSpicyStone fruit

Property

PropertyCentennialErnest
Alpha acid7–12%4.4–6.3%
Beta acid3.5–5.5%4.5–5.5%
Co-humulone23–30%50–55%
Total oil1–3 mL0.7–1.1 mL
Myrcene55–65%50–60%
Humulene10–20%8–12%
Caryophyllene5–7%0–1%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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