GaiavsAmarillo

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

Gaia

Bittering

Alpha acid

12–15%

Beta acid

5–10%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

Czech Republic

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Gaia

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

When to pick Amarillo

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Gaia

Hoppy

Only in Amarillo

FloralTropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Property

PropertyGaiaAmarillo
Alpha acid12–15%7–11%
Beta acid5–10%5.5–8%
Co-humulone20–29%21–24%
Total oil1.5–2.5 mL1–2.3 mL
Myrcene23–37%40–70%
Humulene2–4%19–24%
Caryophyllene9–12%7–10%
Farnesene5–7%6–9%
OriginCzech RepublicUnited States
PurposeBitteringAroma

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