CentennialvsMelba
Centennial (dual purpose) and Melba (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
Melba
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
2.5–5%
Total oil
2–4 mL
Australia
Key differences
When to pick Centennial
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Melba
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
CitrusGrapefruit
Only in Centennial
PineFloralTangerine
Only in Melba
Passion fruitSpicy
Property
| Property | Centennial | Melba |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 7–12% | 7–10% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–5.5% | 2.5–5% |
| Co-humulone | 23–30% | 25–35% |
| Total oil | 1–3 mL | 2–4 mL |
| Myrcene | 55–65% | - |
| Humulene | 10–20% | - |
| Caryophyllene | 5–7% | - |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | - |
| Origin | United States | Australia |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |