CentennialvsRelax
Centennial (dual purpose) and Relax (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
Relax
Alpha acid
0.3–4%
Beta acid
10–15%
Total oil
1–1.3 mL
Germany
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 Relax
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Centennial
PineCitrusFloralGrapefruitTangerine
Only in Relax
HoneydewMelonCognacLycheeLavenderLeatherHibiscusLemongrass
Property
| Property | Centennial | Relax |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 7–12% | 0.3–4% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–5.5% | 10–15% |
| Co-humulone | 23–30% | - |
| Total oil | 1–3 mL | 1–1.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 55–65% | 17–30% |
| Humulene | 10–20% | - |
| Caryophyllene | 5–7% | - |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | - |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |