ColumbusvsPerle (US)
Columbus and Perle (US) are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Columbus
Alpha acid
14–18%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
Perle (US)
Alpha acid
4–9%
Beta acid
2.5–4.5%
Total oil
0.5–2 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
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Perle (US)
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Columbus
EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyCitrusPungentDankCannabis
Only in Perle (US)
SlightlyHerbal
Property
| Property | Columbus | Perle (US) |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 14–18% | 4–9% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6% | 2.5–4.5% |
| Co-humulone | 28–35% | 28–35% |
| Total oil | 2.5–4.5 mL | 0.5–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–55% | 30–45% |
| Humulene | 9–14% | 28–34% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–10% | 12–16% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |