ColumbusvsComet

Columbus and Comet 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

Comet

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8–12.4%

Beta acid

3–6.1%

Total oil

1–3.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Columbus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Comet

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyCitrusFloralPungentDankCannabis

Only in Comet

GrassyGrapefruitWild

Property

PropertyColumbusComet
Alpha acid14–18%8–12.4%
Beta acid4.5–6%3–6.1%
Co-humulone28–35%34–45%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL1–3.3 mL
Myrcene45–55%40–65%
Humulene9–14%1–2%
Caryophyllene6–10%5–15%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

Related comparisons