CTZvsAmarillo

CTZ (dual purpose) and Amarillo (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

CTZ

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14.5–17%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick CTZ

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Amarillo

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusDank

Only in CTZ

Black currantLicoriceCurryCannabis

Only in Amarillo

FloralSpicyTropicalOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruit

Property

PropertyCTZAmarillo
Alpha acid14.5–17%7–11%
Beta acid4.5–5.5%5.5–8%
Co-humulone28–35%21–24%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL1–2.3 mL
Myrcene45–55%40–70%
Humulene9–14%19–24%
Caryophyllene6–10%7–10%
Farnesene0–1%6–9%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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