ColumbusvsNorthern Brewer (GR)
Columbus (dual purpose) and Northern Brewer (GR) (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
Northern Brewer (GR)
Alpha acid
6–10%
Beta acid
3–5%
Total oil
1–2.1 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Columbus
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Northern Brewer (GR)
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Columbus
EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyCitrusFloralPungentDankCannabis
Only in Northern Brewer (GR)
MintGrassyPine
Property
| Property | Columbus | Northern Brewer (GR) |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 14–18% | 6–10% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6% | 3–5% |
| Co-humulone | 28–35% | 27–33% |
| Total oil | 2.5–4.5 mL | 1–2.1 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–55% | 25–45% |
| Humulene | 9–14% | 35–50% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–10% | 10–20% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |