CometvsBitter Gold
Comet and Bitter Gold are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Comet
Alpha acid
8–12.4%
Beta acid
3–6.1%
Total oil
1–3.3 mL
United States
Bitter Gold
Alpha acid
12–18.8%
Beta acid
4.5–8%
Total oil
0.8–3.9 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Comet
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick Bitter Gold
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
GrassyGrapefruit
Only in Comet
Wild
Only in Bitter Gold
Stone fruitTropicalPearWatermelonFloral
Property
| Property | Comet | Bitter Gold |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 8–12.4% | 12–18.8% |
| Beta acid | 3–6.1% | 4.5–8% |
| Co-humulone | 34–45% | 36–41% |
| Total oil | 1–3.3 mL | 0.8–3.9 mL |
| Myrcene | 40–65% | 45–68% |
| Humulene | 1–2% | 7–18% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–15% | 7–11% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–2% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |