Columbus
Alpha acid
14–18%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
Harlequin
Alpha acid
9–12%
Beta acid
7–9%
Total oil
1–1.6 mL
UK
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 Harlequin
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Columbus
EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyCitrusFloralPungentDankCannabis
Only in Harlequin
Passion fruitPeachPineapple
Property
| Property | Columbus | Harlequin |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 14–18% | 9–12% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6% | 7–9% |
| Co-humulone | 28–35% | 27–31% |
| Total oil | 2.5–4.5 mL | 1–1.6 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–55% | 59–61% |
| Humulene | 9–14% | 4–6% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–10% | - |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 9–11% |
| Origin | United States | UK |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |