ColumbusvsHBC 586

Columbus and HBC 586 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

HBC 586

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

18–22%

Beta acid

11–14%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Columbus

  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick HBC 586

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

SpicyCitrus

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurryFloralPungentDankCannabis

Only in HBC 586

MangoLycheeHerbalGuava

Property

PropertyColumbusHBC 586
Alpha acid14–18%18–22%
Beta acid4.5–6%11–14%
Co-humulone28–35%35–40%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene45–55%55–65%
Humulene9–14%8–12%
Caryophyllene6–10%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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