ChinookvsSamba

Chinook (dual purpose) and Samba (aroma) 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

Samba

Aroma

Alpha acid

8–12%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Chinook

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Samba

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Chinook

PineResinGrapefruitSpicyDankCannabis

Only in Samba

TropicalPineappleMangoStone fruitCandyOrange

Property

PropertyChinookSamba
Alpha acid11.5–15%8–12%
Beta acid3–4%4–6%
Co-humulone27–35%28–32%
Total oil1–2.7 mL1.5–2.5 mL
Myrcene20–30%-
Humulene18–24%-
Caryophyllene9–11%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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