CentennialvsPetit Blanc

Centennial (dual purpose) and Petit Blanc (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

Petit Blanc

Aroma

Alpha acid

2–4%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

0.5–0.8 mL

France

Key differences

When to pick Centennial

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

When to pick Petit Blanc

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Centennial

PineCitrusFloralGrapefruitTangerine

Only in Petit Blanc

CherryMelonPapayaGreenLilac

Property

PropertyCentennialPetit Blanc
Alpha acid7–12%2–4%
Beta acid3.5–5.5%5–6%
Co-humulone23–30%15%
Total oil1–3 mL0.5–0.8 mL
Myrcene55–65%-
Humulene10–20%-
Caryophyllene5–7%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited StatesFrance
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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