GlaciervsColumbus

Glacier and Columbus are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Glacier

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

3.3–9.7%

Beta acid

5.4–10%

Total oil

0.5–1.5 mL

United States

Columbus

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14–18%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Glacier

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

When to pick Columbus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Glacier

PlumBlackberryWoodyCedar

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyCitrusFloralPungentDankCannabis

Property

PropertyGlacierColumbus
Alpha acid3.3–9.7%14–18%
Beta acid5.4–10%4.5–6%
Co-humulone11–16%28–35%
Total oil0.5–1.5 mL2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene35–45%45–55%
Humulene25–35%9–14%
Caryophyllene8–13%6–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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