Columbus
Alpha acid
14–18%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
Helga
Alpha acid
5.4–7.3%
Beta acid
5–7%
Total oil
0.6–1 mL
Australia
Key differences
When to pick Columbus
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Helga
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Columbus
EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyCitrusFloralPungentDankCannabis
Only in Helga
Noble
Property
| Property | Columbus | Helga |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 14–18% | 5.4–7.3% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6% | 5–7% |
| Co-humulone | 28–35% | 20–23% |
| Total oil | 2.5–4.5 mL | 0.6–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–55% | 1–13% |
| Humulene | 9–14% | 35–55% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–10% | 10–45% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | Australia |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |