ColumbusvsChinook

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

Columbus

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14–18%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Chinook

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–15%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Columbus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Chinook

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

SpicyDankCannabis

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurryCitrusFloralPungent

Only in Chinook

PineResinGrapefruit

Property

PropertyColumbusChinook
Alpha acid14–18%11.5–15%
Beta acid4.5–6%3–4%
Co-humulone28–35%27–35%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL1–2.7 mL
Myrcene45–55%20–30%
Humulene9–14%18–24%
Caryophyllene6–10%9–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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