ColumbusvsPahto

Columbus (dual purpose) and Pahto (bittering) 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

Pahto

Bittering

Alpha acid

17–20%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

1–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Columbus

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

When to pick Pahto

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Earthy

Only in Columbus

Black currantLicoriceCurrySpicyCitrusFloralPungentDankCannabis

Only in Pahto

NeutralHerbalCleanSmooth

Property

PropertyColumbusPahto
Alpha acid14–18%17–20%
Beta acid4.5–6%4.5–6%
Co-humulone28–35%26–32%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL1–2.5 mL
Myrcene45–55%58–72%
Humulene9–14%8–11%
Caryophyllene6–10%3–6%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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