CentennialvsIdaho Gem

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

Centennial

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–12%

Beta acid

3.5–5.5%

Total oil

1–3 mL

United States

Idaho Gem

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–14%

Beta acid

5–7%

Total oil

1.3–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Centennial

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

When to pick Idaho Gem

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Centennial

PineFloralGrapefruitTangerine

Only in Idaho Gem

PineappleCherryCandiedHerbalSpicyMintStone fruitRedberryMojitoSweet

Property

PropertyCentennialIdaho Gem
Alpha acid7–12%11–14%
Beta acid3.5–5.5%5–7%
Co-humulone23–30%40–45%
Total oil1–3 mL1.3–2.3 mL
Myrcene55–65%-
Humulene10–20%-
Caryophyllene5–7%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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