ChinookvsTopaz

Chinook and Topaz are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Chinook

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–15%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2.7 mL

United States

Topaz

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

13.7–20.1%

Beta acid

4.9–7.9%

Total oil

1.3–2.2 mL

Australia

Key differences

When to pick Chinook

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

When to pick Topaz

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

PineResin

Only in Chinook

GrapefruitSpicyDankCannabis

Only in Topaz

LycheeCloveGrassyTropicalPassion fruit

Property

PropertyChinookTopaz
Alpha acid11.5–15%13.7–20.1%
Beta acid3–4%4.9–7.9%
Co-humulone27–35%47–53%
Total oil1–2.7 mL1.3–2.2 mL
Myrcene20–30%18–56%
Humulene18–24%8–16%
Caryophyllene9–11%6–13%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesAustralia
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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