CentennialvsSovereign

Centennial (dual purpose) and Sovereign (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

Sovereign

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.5–6.5%

Beta acid

2.1–3.1%

Total oil

0.6–1 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Centennial

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

When to pick Sovereign

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Centennial

PineCitrusGrapefruitTangerine

Only in Sovereign

MintFruityGrassyHerbalPear

Property

PropertyCentennialSovereign
Alpha acid7–12%4.5–6.5%
Beta acid3.5–5.5%2.1–3.1%
Co-humulone23–30%26–30%
Total oil1–3 mL0.6–1 mL
Myrcene55–65%20–31%
Humulene10–20%20–27%
Caryophyllene5–7%7–9%
Farnesene0–1%3–4%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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