ColumbusvsMagnat

Columbus and Magnat 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

Magnat

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–16%

Beta acid

2.8–7%

Total oil

1–2 mL

Poland

Key differences

When to pick Columbus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Magnat

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusFloral

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyPungentDankCannabis

Only in Magnat

LilacChamomileWoodyLemon

Property

PropertyColumbusMagnat
Alpha acid14–18%11–16%
Beta acid4.5–6%2.8–7%
Co-humulone28–35%21–25%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL1–2 mL
Myrcene45–55%30–59%
Humulene9–14%16–20%
Caryophyllene6–10%7–8%
Farnesene0–1%5–6%
OriginUnited StatesPoland
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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