ColumbusvsTarget

Columbus (dual purpose) and Target (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

Target

Bittering

Alpha acid

8.5–13.5%

Beta acid

4.3–5.7%

Total oil

1–1.4 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Columbus

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

When to pick Target

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

SpicyCitrus

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurryFloralPungentDankCannabis

Only in Target

MarmaladeSagePepper

Property

PropertyColumbusTarget
Alpha acid14–18%8.5–13.5%
Beta acid4.5–6%4.3–5.7%
Co-humulone28–35%35–40%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL1–1.4 mL
Myrcene45–55%45–55%
Humulene9–14%17–23%
Caryophyllene6–10%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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