ChinookvsZenith

Chinook (dual purpose) and Zenith (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

Zenith

Bittering

Alpha acid

9–11%

Beta acid

3%

Total oil

-

United States

Key differences

When to pick Chinook

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Zenith

  • 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 Zenith

FloralCitrus

Property

PropertyChinookZenith
Alpha acid11.5–15%9–11%
Beta acid3–4%3%
Co-humulone27–35%25%
Total oil1–2.7 mL-
Myrcene20–30%51–53%
Humulene18–24%18–20%
Caryophyllene9–11%6–7%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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