ColumbusvsPekko

Columbus and Pekko are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Columbus

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14–18%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Pekko

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

13–16%

Beta acid

3.5–5%

Total oil

1–3 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

When to pick Pekko

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusFloral

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyPungentDankCannabis

Only in Pekko

PleasantMintHerbalMellowPineappleThymeCucumberSageLemon

Property

PropertyColumbusPekko
Alpha acid14–18%13–16%
Beta acid4.5–6%3.5–5%
Co-humulone28–35%27–30%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL1–3 mL
Myrcene45–55%20–30%
Humulene9–14%20–28%
Caryophyllene6–10%15–20%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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