ChinookvsTillicum

Chinook (dual purpose) and Tillicum (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

Tillicum

Bittering

Alpha acid

13.5–15.5%

Beta acid

9.5–11.5%

Total oil

-

United States

Key differences

When to pick Chinook

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Tillicum

  • 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 Tillicum

Stone fruitCitrus

Property

PropertyChinookTillicum
Alpha acid11.5–15%13.5–15.5%
Beta acid3–4%9.5–11.5%
Co-humulone27–35%35%
Total oil1–2.7 mL-
Myrcene20–30%39–41%
Humulene18–24%13–15%
Caryophyllene9–11%7–8%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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