ColumbusvsPetit Blanc

Columbus (dual purpose) and Petit Blanc (aroma) 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

Petit Blanc

Aroma

Alpha acid

2–4%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

0.5–0.8 mL

France

Key differences

When to pick Columbus

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

When to pick Petit Blanc

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyCitrusFloralPungentDankCannabis

Only in Petit Blanc

CherryMelonPapayaGreenLilac

Property

PropertyColumbusPetit Blanc
Alpha acid14–18%2–4%
Beta acid4.5–6%5–6%
Co-humulone28–35%15%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL0.5–0.8 mL
Myrcene45–55%-
Humulene9–14%-
Caryophyllene6–10%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited StatesFrance
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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