DefendervsSantiam

Defender and Santiam are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Defender

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.3–6%

Beta acid

1.1–2.5%

Total oil

0.28–0.98 mL

United Kingdom

Santiam

Aroma

Alpha acid

5–8.5%

Beta acid

5.3–8.5%

Total oil

1–2.2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Defender

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

When to pick Santiam

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Defender

Pleasant

Only in Santiam

FloralSpicyBlack currant

Property

PropertyDefenderSantiam
Alpha acid3.3–6%5–8.5%
Beta acid1.1–2.5%5.3–8.5%
Co-humulone23–32%18–24%
Total oil0.28–0.98 mL1–2.2 mL
Myrcene30–32%15–25%
Humulene34–36%20–30%
Caryophyllene13–15%6–9%
Farnesene3–4%14–18%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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