Emerald SpirevsAmarillo
Emerald Spire (dual purpose) and Amarillo (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Emerald Spire
Alpha acid
8.6–13%
Beta acid
3.5–4.5%
Total oil
-
United States
Amarillo
Alpha acid
7–11%
Beta acid
5.5–8%
Total oil
1–2.3 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Emerald Spire
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Amarillo
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
PeachMelon
Only in Emerald Spire
FruityWhiteGrapesWatermelonBubbleHoneydew
Only in Amarillo
FloralSpicyTropicalCitrusOrangeLemonApricotGrapefruitDank
Property
| Property | Emerald Spire | Amarillo |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 8.6–13% | 7–11% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–4.5% | 5.5–8% |
| Co-humulone | 38–39% | 21–24% |
| Total oil | - | 1–2.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 36–37% | 40–70% |
| Humulene | 10–11% | 19–24% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–8% | 7–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 6–9% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |