ColumbiavsProgress

Columbia (dual purpose) and Progress (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Columbia

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–9%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2 mL

United States

Progress

Aroma

Alpha acid

5–7.5%

Beta acid

1.8–2.7%

Total oil

0.5–0.8 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Columbia

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Progress

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Columbia

PineappleLemonCitrusNoblePungent

Only in Progress

GrassyMintSweetHoneyBlack currantFruityFloral

Property

PropertyColumbiaProgress
Alpha acid5–9%5–7.5%
Beta acid3–4%1.8–2.7%
Co-humulone40%25–27%
Total oil1–2 mL0.5–0.8 mL
Myrcene45–55%25–30%
Humulene15–19%40–47%
Caryophyllene9–12%12–15%
Farnesene3–5%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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