HBC 586vsAdmiral

HBC 586 (dual purpose) and Admiral (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

HBC 586

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

18–22%

Beta acid

11–14%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Admiral

Bittering

Alpha acid

13–16.2%

Beta acid

4.8–6.1%

Total oil

1–1.7 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick HBC 586

  • 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

When to pick Admiral

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusHerbal

Only in HBC 586

MangoLycheeGuavaSpicy

Only in Admiral

OrangeTeaFreshPineResin

Property

PropertyHBC 586Admiral
Alpha acid18–22%13–16.2%
Beta acid11–14%4.8–6.1%
Co-humulone35–40%37–45%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL1–1.7 mL
Myrcene55–65%39–48%
Humulene8–12%23–26%
Caryophyllene8–10%6–8%
Farnesene0–1%0–2%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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