ColumbusvsTopaz

Columbus and Topaz 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

Topaz

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

13.7–20.1%

Beta acid

4.9–7.9%

Total oil

1.3–2.2 mL

Australia

Key differences

When to pick Columbus

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Topaz

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyCitrusFloralPungentDankCannabis

Only in Topaz

LycheeCloveResinGrassyTropicalPinePassion fruit

Property

PropertyColumbusTopaz
Alpha acid14–18%13.7–20.1%
Beta acid4.5–6%4.9–7.9%
Co-humulone28–35%47–53%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL1.3–2.2 mL
Myrcene45–55%18–56%
Humulene9–14%8–16%
Caryophyllene6–10%6–13%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesAustralia
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

Related comparisons