ChelanvsChinook

Chelan (bittering) and Chinook (dual purpose) 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

Chinook

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–15%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Chelan

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Chinook

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Chelan

FloralCitrusFruityMild

Only in Chinook

PineResinGrapefruitSpicyDankCannabis

Property

PropertyChelanChinook
Alpha acid12–15%11.5–15%
Beta acid8.5–10%3–4%
Co-humulone33–35%27–35%
Total oil1.5–1.9 mL1–2.7 mL
Myrcene45–55%20–30%
Humulene12–15%18–24%
Caryophyllene9–12%9–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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