ColumbusvsNorthern Brewer (US)
Columbus (dual purpose) and Northern Brewer (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
Northern Brewer (US)
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
3–5.5%
Total oil
1–2 mL
United States
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 (US)
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Black currant
Only in Columbus
EarthyLicoriceCurrySpicyCitrusFloralPungentDankCannabis
Only in Northern Brewer (US)
PineWoodyMint
Property
| Property | Columbus | Northern Brewer (US) |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 14–18% | 7–10% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6% | 3–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 28–35% | 27–34% |
| Total oil | 2.5–4.5 mL | 1–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–55% | 35–45% |
| Humulene | 9–14% | 27–31% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–10% | 11–15% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |