CentennialvsSonnet

Centennial (dual purpose) and Sonnet (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

Sonnet

Aroma

Alpha acid

2.6–7.4%

Beta acid

2–3.7%

Total oil

0.2–1 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Centennial

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Sonnet

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusFloral

Only in Centennial

PineGrapefruitTangerine

Only in Sonnet

HoneysuckleSweetLemonEarthyGrassHoneyOak

Property

PropertyCentennialSonnet
Alpha acid7–12%2.6–7.4%
Beta acid3.5–5.5%2–3.7%
Co-humulone23–30%-
Total oil1–3 mL0.2–1 mL
Myrcene55–65%-
Humulene10–20%-
Caryophyllene5–7%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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