ColumbusvsMagnum (US)
Columbus (dual purpose) and Magnum (US) (bittering) 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
Magnum (US)
Alpha acid
10–16%
Beta acid
4.5–7%
Total oil
1.6–3 mL
United States
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 Magnum (US)
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Black currantSpicyCitrusFloral
Only in Columbus
EarthyLicoriceCurryPungentDankCannabis
Only in Magnum (US)
Nutmeg
Property
| Property | Columbus | Magnum (US) |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 14–18% | 10–16% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6% | 4.5–7% |
| Co-humulone | 28–35% | 21–30% |
| Total oil | 2.5–4.5 mL | 1.6–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–55% | 30–45% |
| Humulene | 9–14% | 30–45% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–10% | 8–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |