ColumbusvsElixir

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

Columbus

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14–18%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Elixir

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.6–7%

Beta acid

4.5–6.6%

Total oil

1.8–2.2 mL

France

Key differences

When to pick Columbus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Elixir

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

SpicyCitrusFloral

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurryPungentDankCannabis

Only in Elixir

RoseCognacLeatherTobaccoTropicalTangerineOrangeSandalwood

Property

PropertyColumbusElixir
Alpha acid14–18%4.6–7%
Beta acid4.5–6%4.5–6.6%
Co-humulone28–35%25–30%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL1.8–2.2 mL
Myrcene45–55%65–75%
Humulene9–14%1–2%
Caryophyllene6–10%26–27%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesFrance
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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