CentennialvsMedusa
Centennial (dual purpose) and Medusa (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Centennial
Alpha acid
7–12%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
1–3 mL
United States
Medusa
Alpha acid
3–5%
Beta acid
5–6.5%
Total oil
0.4–0.7 mL
United States
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 Medusa
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Citrus
Only in Centennial
PineFloralGrapefruitTangerine
Only in Medusa
GuavaMelonApricotLemonLimeAlfalfaPeach
Property
| Property | Centennial | Medusa |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 7–12% | 3–5% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–5.5% | 5–6.5% |
| Co-humulone | 23–30% | 35–49% |
| Total oil | 1–3 mL | 0.4–0.7 mL |
| Myrcene | 55–65% | 54–55% |
| Humulene | 10–20% | 9–10% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–7% | 13–14% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 1–2% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |