CTZvsXJA2/436

CTZ (dual purpose) and XJA2/436 (bittering) 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

XJA2/436

Bittering

Alpha acid

11.5–16.4%

Beta acid

7.8–8.4%

Total oil

1.1–1.7 mL

South Africa

Key differences

When to pick CTZ

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick XJA2/436

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in CTZ

Black currantLicoriceCurryCannabisDank

Only in XJA2/436

LemonZestPapayaCataloupeGooseberryResinBlueberry

Property

PropertyCTZXJA2/436
Alpha acid14.5–17%11.5–16.4%
Beta acid4.5–5.5%7.8–8.4%
Co-humulone28–35%29–30%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL1.1–1.7 mL
Myrcene45–55%18–30%
Humulene9–14%21–35%
Caryophyllene6–10%11–13%
Farnesene0–1%8–18%
OriginUnited StatesSouth Africa
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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