ChinookvsApollo

Chinook (dual purpose) and Apollo (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Chinook

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–15%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2.7 mL

United States

Apollo

Bittering

Alpha acid

15–20.5%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

0.8–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Chinook

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Apollo

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

PineResinGrapefruitDankCannabis

Only in Chinook

Spicy

Only in Apollo

CitrusOrangeLimeLemon

Property

PropertyChinookApollo
Alpha acid11.5–15%15–20.5%
Beta acid3–4%5.5–8%
Co-humulone27–35%23–28%
Total oil1–2.7 mL0.8–2.5 mL
Myrcene20–30%30–50%
Humulene18–24%20–35%
Caryophyllene9–11%14–20%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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