Columbus
Alpha acid
14–18%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
USDA 008
Alpha acid
10.1–11.1%
Beta acid
2.7–3.3%
Total oil
1.6–1.7 mL
United States
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 USDA 008
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
CitrusFloral
Only in Columbus
EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyPungentDankCannabis
Only in USDA 008
SweetPeachMangoStone fruit
Property
| Property | Columbus | USDA 008 |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 14–18% | 10.1–11.1% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6% | 2.7–3.3% |
| Co-humulone | 28–35% | 25–26% |
| Total oil | 2.5–4.5 mL | 1.6–1.7 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–55% | 6–7% |
| Humulene | 9–14% | 48–49% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–10% | 16–17% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |