ChinookvsNorthern Brewer (US)
Chinook (dual purpose) and Northern Brewer (US) (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Chinook
Alpha acid
11.5–15%
Beta acid
3–4%
Total oil
1–2.7 mL
United States
Northern Brewer (US)
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
3–5.5%
Total oil
1–2 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Chinook
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Northern Brewer (US)
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Pine
Only in Chinook
ResinGrapefruitSpicyDankCannabis
Only in Northern Brewer (US)
WoodyMintBlack currant
Property
| Property | Chinook | Northern Brewer (US) |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 11.5–15% | 7–10% |
| Beta acid | 3–4% | 3–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 27–35% | 27–34% |
| Total oil | 1–2.7 mL | 1–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 20–30% | 35–45% |
| Humulene | 18–24% | 27–31% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–11% | 11–15% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |