ChelanvsAmarillo

Chelan (bittering) and Amarillo (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Chelan

Bittering

Alpha acid

12–15%

Beta acid

8.5–10%

Total oil

1.5–1.9 mL

United States

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Chelan

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Amarillo

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralCitrus

Only in Chelan

FruityMild

Only in Amarillo

SpicyTropicalOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Property

PropertyChelanAmarillo
Alpha acid12–15%7–11%
Beta acid8.5–10%5.5–8%
Co-humulone33–35%21–24%
Total oil1.5–1.9 mL1–2.3 mL
Myrcene45–55%40–70%
Humulene12–15%19–24%
Caryophyllene9–12%7–10%
Farnesene0–1%6–9%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringAroma

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