CTZvsBramling Cross

CTZ and Bramling Cross are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

CTZ

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14.5–17%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Bramling Cross

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–8%

Beta acid

2.3–3.2%

Total oil

0.7–1.2 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick CTZ

  • 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

When to pick Bramling Cross

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Black currant

Only in CTZ

LicoriceCurryCitrusCannabisDank

Only in Bramling Cross

LoganberryVanillaLemonSpicy

Property

PropertyCTZBramling Cross
Alpha acid14.5–17%5–8%
Beta acid4.5–5.5%2.3–3.2%
Co-humulone28–35%33–35%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL0.7–1.2 mL
Myrcene45–55%35–37%
Humulene9–14%29–31%
Caryophyllene6–10%14–16%
Farnesene0–1%0–2%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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