ColumbusvsStyrian Cardinal
Columbus (dual purpose) and Styrian Cardinal (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Columbus
Alpha acid
14–18%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
Styrian Cardinal
Alpha acid
8–15%
Beta acid
3.2–4.6%
Total oil
3–4 mL
Slovenia
Key differences
When to pick Columbus
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Styrian Cardinal
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Citrus
Only in Columbus
EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyFloralPungentDankCannabis
Only in Styrian Cardinal
GooseberryPineappleOrangeLimeJasmineGuava
Property
| Property | Columbus | Styrian Cardinal |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 14–18% | 8–15% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6% | 3.2–4.6% |
| Co-humulone | 28–35% | 31–37% |
| Total oil | 2.5–4.5 mL | 3–4 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–55% | 40–50% |
| Humulene | 9–14% | 15–22% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–10% | 8–11% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 5–7% |
| Origin | United States | Slovenia |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |