ColumbusvsPhoenix

Columbus and Phoenix 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

Phoenix

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8–13.5%

Beta acid

3.3–5.5%

Total oil

1.2–3 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Columbus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Phoenix

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

SpicyFloral

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurryCitrusPungentDankCannabis

Only in Phoenix

MolassesChocolatePine

Property

PropertyColumbusPhoenix
Alpha acid14–18%8–13.5%
Beta acid4.5–6%3.3–5.5%
Co-humulone28–35%24–33%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL1.2–3 mL
Myrcene45–55%23–25%
Humulene9–14%29–31%
Caryophyllene6–10%10–12%
Farnesene0–1%1–2%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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