Chelan
Alpha acid
12–15%
Beta acid
8.5–10%
Total oil
1.5–1.9 mL
United States
Columbus
Alpha acid
14–18%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Chelan
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Columbus
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
FloralCitrus
Only in Chelan
FruityMild
Only in Columbus
EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyPungentDankCannabis
Property
| Property | Chelan | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–15% | 14–18% |
| Beta acid | 8.5–10% | 4.5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 33–35% | 28–35% |
| Total oil | 1.5–1.9 mL | 2.5–4.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–55% | 45–55% |
| Humulene | 12–15% | 9–14% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–12% | 6–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |