ColumbusvsHuell Melon
Columbus (dual purpose) and Huell Melon (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Columbus
Alpha acid
14–18%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
Huell Melon
Alpha acid
6.9–8%
Beta acid
6–8%
Total oil
0.8–1.2 mL
Germany
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 Huell Melon
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- 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 Huell Melon
MelonStrawberryHoneydewFruitySweetOrangeVanilla
Property
| Property | Columbus | Huell Melon |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 14–18% | 6.9–8% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6% | 6–8% |
| Co-humulone | 28–35% | 25–30% |
| Total oil | 2.5–4.5 mL | 0.8–1.2 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–55% | 35–37% |
| Humulene | 9–14% | 10–20% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–10% | 5–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |