CentennialvsLambic

Centennial (dual purpose) and Lambic (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

Lambic

Aroma

Alpha acid

1–2%

Beta acid

2.8–5%

Total oil

0.8–1.2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Centennial

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Lambic

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Centennial

PineCitrusFloralGrapefruitTangerine

Only in Lambic

GrassySpicyWoody

Property

PropertyCentennialLambic
Alpha acid7–12%1–2%
Beta acid3.5–5.5%2.8–5%
Co-humulone23–30%29–35%
Total oil1–3 mL0.8–1.2 mL
Myrcene55–65%-
Humulene10–20%-
Caryophyllene5–7%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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