ContessavsAurora

Contessa (bittering) and Aurora (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Contessa

Bittering

Alpha acid

3–5%

Beta acid

5–7.4%

Total oil

0.8–1.9 mL

United States

Aurora

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6.5–13%

Beta acid

2.7–5.5%

Total oil

0.9–1.8 mL

Slovenia

Key differences

When to pick Contessa

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Aurora

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralLemongrass

Only in Contessa

GreenPear

Only in Aurora

SpicyNoble

Property

PropertyContessaAurora
Alpha acid3–5%6.5–13%
Beta acid5–7.4%2.7–5.5%
Co-humulone29–32%20–26%
Total oil0.8–1.9 mL0.9–1.8 mL
Myrcene-20–25%
Humulene-20–25%
Caryophyllene-6–9%
Farnesene-5–10%
OriginUnited StatesSlovenia
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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