ColumbusvsSorachi Ace

Columbus and Sorachi Ace 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

Sorachi Ace

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–16%

Beta acid

6–8%

Total oil

1–3 mL

Japan

Key differences

When to pick Columbus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Sorachi Ace

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyFloralPungentDankCannabis

Only in Sorachi Ace

LemonDillWoodyTobaccoHerbal

Property

PropertyColumbusSorachi Ace
Alpha acid14–18%11–16%
Beta acid4.5–6%6–8%
Co-humulone28–35%23–28%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL1–3 mL
Myrcene45–55%45–55%
Humulene9–14%20–26%
Caryophyllene6–10%7–11%
Farnesene0–1%2–5%
OriginUnited StatesJapan
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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