ColumbusvsPilgrim

Columbus and Pilgrim 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

Pilgrim

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–13%

Beta acid

4.2–5.5%

Total oil

1–1.8 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 Pilgrim

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

SpicyCitrus

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurryFloralPungentDankCannabis

Only in Pilgrim

FruityLemonGrapefruitPearBerry

Property

PropertyColumbusPilgrim
Alpha acid14–18%9–13%
Beta acid4.5–6%4.2–5.5%
Co-humulone28–35%36–38%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL1–1.8 mL
Myrcene45–55%30–35%
Humulene9–14%21–25%
Caryophyllene6–10%-
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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