ChinookvsPahto

Chinook (dual purpose) and Pahto (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

Pahto

Bittering

Alpha acid

17–20%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

1–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Chinook

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Pahto

  • 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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Chinook

PineResinGrapefruitSpicyDankCannabis

Only in Pahto

NeutralHerbalEarthyCleanSmooth

Property

PropertyChinookPahto
Alpha acid11.5–15%17–20%
Beta acid3–4%4.5–6%
Co-humulone27–35%26–32%
Total oil1–2.7 mL1–2.5 mL
Myrcene20–30%58–72%
Humulene18–24%8–11%
Caryophyllene9–11%3–6%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

Related comparisons