CentennialvsPacific Sunrise

Centennial (dual purpose) and Pacific Sunrise (bittering) 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

Pacific Sunrise

Bittering

Alpha acid

12.5–14.5%

Beta acid

5–7%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Centennial

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Pacific Sunrise

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

PineFloral

Only in Centennial

CitrusGrapefruitTangerine

Only in Pacific Sunrise

WoodyLemonOrangeMangoMelon

Property

PropertyCentennialPacific Sunrise
Alpha acid7–12%12.5–14.5%
Beta acid3.5–5.5%5–7%
Co-humulone23–30%27–30%
Total oil1–3 mL1.5–2.5 mL
Myrcene55–65%45–55%
Humulene10–20%20–24%
Caryophyllene5–7%6–8%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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