ColumbusvsSmaragd

Columbus (dual purpose) and Smaragd (bittering) 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

Smaragd

Bittering

Alpha acid

4–6%

Beta acid

3.5–5.5%

Total oil

0.4–0.8 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Columbus

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

When to pick Smaragd

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

SpicyFloral

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurryCitrusPungentDankCannabis

Only in Smaragd

FruityTobaccoAniseCloveNoble

Property

PropertyColumbusSmaragd
Alpha acid14–18%4–6%
Beta acid4.5–6%3.5–5.5%
Co-humulone28–35%13–18%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL0.4–0.8 mL
Myrcene45–55%20–40%
Humulene9–14%30–50%
Caryophyllene6–10%9–14%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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