ChelanvsHuell Melon

Chelan (bittering) and Huell Melon (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

Huell Melon

Aroma

Alpha acid

6.9–8%

Beta acid

6–8%

Total oil

0.8–1.2 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Chelan

  • 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
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Huell Melon

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Fruity

Only in Chelan

FloralCitrusMild

Only in Huell Melon

MelonStrawberryHoneydewSweetOrangeVanilla

Property

PropertyChelanHuell Melon
Alpha acid12–15%6.9–8%
Beta acid8.5–10%6–8%
Co-humulone33–35%25–30%
Total oil1.5–1.9 mL0.8–1.2 mL
Myrcene45–55%35–37%
Humulene12–15%10–20%
Caryophyllene9–12%5–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeBitteringAroma

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