ColumbusvsSussex

Columbus (dual purpose) and Sussex (aroma) 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

Sussex

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.3–5.8%

Beta acid

2.4–3.2%

Total oil

0.4–0.6 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Columbus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • 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 Sussex

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

EarthyCitrus

Only in Columbus

Black currantLicoriceCurrySpicyFloralPungentDankCannabis

Only in Sussex

GrassyMintVanilla

Property

PropertyColumbusSussex
Alpha acid14–18%4.3–5.8%
Beta acid4.5–6%2.4–3.2%
Co-humulone28–35%29–32%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL0.4–0.6 mL
Myrcene45–55%41–43%
Humulene9–14%22–24%
Caryophyllene6–10%-
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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