ColumbusvsTettnanger

Columbus and Tettnanger 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

Tettnanger

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

2.5–5.8%

Beta acid

2.8–5.3%

Total oil

0.4–1.1 mL

Germany

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
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Tettnanger

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Black currantSpicyFloral

Only in Columbus

EarthyLicoriceCurryCitrusPungentDankCannabis

Only in Tettnanger

Pepper

Property

PropertyColumbusTettnanger
Alpha acid14–18%2.5–5.8%
Beta acid4.5–6%2.8–5.3%
Co-humulone28–35%22–28%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL0.4–1.1 mL
Myrcene45–55%40–41%
Humulene9–14%20–21%
Caryophyllene6–10%6–7%
Farnesene0–1%11–12%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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