HarlequinvsAmarillo

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

Harlequin

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–12%

Beta acid

7–9%

Total oil

1–1.6 mL

UK

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Harlequin

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Amarillo

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Peach

Only in Harlequin

Passion fruitPineapple

Only in Amarillo

FloralSpicyTropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotGrapefruitDank

Property

PropertyHarlequinAmarillo
Alpha acid9–12%7–11%
Beta acid7–9%5.5–8%
Co-humulone27–31%21–24%
Total oil1–1.6 mL1–2.3 mL
Myrcene59–61%40–70%
Humulene4–6%19–24%
Caryophyllene-7–10%
Farnesene9–11%6–9%
OriginUKUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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