DeltavsTarget

Delta (aroma) and Target (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

Target

Bittering

Alpha acid

8.5–13.5%

Beta acid

4.3–5.7%

Total oil

1–1.4 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Delta

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

When to pick Target

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusSpicy

Only in Delta

Melon

Only in Target

MarmaladeSagePepper

Property

PropertyDeltaTarget
Alpha acid5.5–7%8.5–13.5%
Beta acid5.5–7%4.3–5.7%
Co-humulone22–24%35–40%
Total oil0.5–1.1 mL1–1.4 mL
Myrcene25–40%45–55%
Humulene25–35%17–23%
Caryophyllene9–15%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeAromaBittering

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