ColumbusvsFirst Gold
Columbus and First Gold are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Columbus
Alpha acid
14–18%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
First Gold
Alpha acid
5.6–10%
Beta acid
2.3–4.1%
Total oil
0.7–1.5 mL
United Kingdom
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
When to pick First Gold
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
SpicyFloral
Only in Columbus
EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurryCitrusPungentDankCannabis
Only in First Gold
TangerineApricotMagnoliaRedberryHerbalOrangeHerbal
Property
| Property | Columbus | First Gold |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 14–18% | 5.6–10% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6% | 2.3–4.1% |
| Co-humulone | 28–35% | 29–35% |
| Total oil | 2.5–4.5 mL | 0.7–1.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–55% | 24–28% |
| Humulene | 9–14% | 20–24% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–10% | 6–7% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 2–4% |
| Origin | United States | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |