DefendervsMillennium

Defender (aroma) and Millennium (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Defender

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.3–6%

Beta acid

1.1–2.5%

Total oil

0.28–0.98 mL

United Kingdom

Millennium

Bittering

Alpha acid

14.5–18.5%

Beta acid

4.3–6.5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Defender

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Millennium

  • 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
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Defender

Pleasant

Only in Millennium

PearToffeeFloralResinHerbal

Property

PropertyDefenderMillennium
Alpha acid3.3–6%14.5–18.5%
Beta acid1.1–2.5%4.3–6.5%
Co-humulone23–32%28–35%
Total oil0.28–0.98 mL1.5–3 mL
Myrcene30–32%35–55%
Humulene34–36%15–25%
Caryophyllene13–15%8–10%
Farnesene3–4%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeAromaBittering

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