ColumbusvsNectaron

Columbus (dual purpose) and Nectaron (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Columbus

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14–18%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Nectaron

Aroma

Alpha acid

9.5–12%

Beta acid

4.5–5%

Total oil

1–1.7 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Columbus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Nectaron

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyFloralPungentDankCannabis

Only in Nectaron

TropicalPineapplePassion fruitPeachGrapefruitNectar

Property

PropertyColumbusNectaron
Alpha acid14–18%9.5–12%
Beta acid4.5–6%4.5–5%
Co-humulone28–35%26–28%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL1–1.7 mL
Myrcene45–55%59–65%
Humulene9–14%10–20%
Caryophyllene6–10%4–5%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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