HeraldvsAmarillo

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

Herald

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–13%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

1–1.9 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 Herald

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Amarillo

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

OrangeGrapefruitCitrus

Only in Herald

Clean

Only in Amarillo

FloralSpicyTropicalLemonMelonApricotPeachDank

Property

PropertyHeraldAmarillo
Alpha acid9–13%7–11%
Beta acid4.5–5.5%5.5–8%
Co-humulone35–37%21–24%
Total oil1–1.9 mL1–2.3 mL
Myrcene39–41%40–70%
Humulene14–16%19–24%
Caryophyllene6–8%7–10%
Farnesene0–1%6–9%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

Related comparisons