EpicvsCentennial

Epic (aroma) and Centennial (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Epic

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–5%

Beta acid

1.7–2.5%

Total oil

0.4–0.8 mL

United Kingdom

Centennial

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–12%

Beta acid

3.5–5.5%

Total oil

1–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Epic

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Centennial

  • 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
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Epic

FruityBerryHerbal

Only in Centennial

PineCitrusFloralGrapefruitTangerine

Property

PropertyEpicCentennial
Alpha acid3–5%7–12%
Beta acid1.7–2.5%3.5–5.5%
Co-humulone30–33%23–30%
Total oil0.4–0.8 mL1–3 mL
Myrcene11–12%55–65%
Humulene41–43%10–20%
Caryophyllene1–2%5–7%
Farnesene1–2%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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