ErnestvsAmarillo

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

Ernest

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.4–6.3%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

0.7–1.1 mL

United Kingdom

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Ernest

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

When to pick Amarillo

  • 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

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Ernest

GrassyHerbalStone fruit

Only in Amarillo

FloralTropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Property

PropertyErnestAmarillo
Alpha acid4.4–6.3%7–11%
Beta acid4.5–5.5%5.5–8%
Co-humulone50–55%21–24%
Total oil0.7–1.1 mL1–2.3 mL
Myrcene50–60%40–70%
Humulene8–12%19–24%
Caryophyllene0–1%7–10%
Farnesene0–1%6–9%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

Related comparisons