DeltavsSummit

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

Delta

Aroma

Alpha acid

5.5–7%

Beta acid

5.5–7%

Total oil

0.5–1.1 mL

United States

Summit

Bittering

Alpha acid

15–17.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Delta

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Summit

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Delta

MelonSpicy

Only in Summit

Black currantAniseIncenseOrangeGrapefruitTangerineEarthyOnionGarlicDankCannabis

Property

PropertyDeltaSummit
Alpha acid5.5–7%15–17.5%
Beta acid5.5–7%4–6.5%
Co-humulone22–24%26–33%
Total oil0.5–1.1 mL1.5–3 mL
Myrcene25–40%30–40%
Humulene25–35%18–22%
Caryophyllene9–15%12–16%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaBittering

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