HorizonvsAdmiral

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

Horizon

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8.8–12%

Beta acid

5.5–7.5%

Total oil

0.5–1.5 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 Horizon

  • 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

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Horizon

FloralSpicyFloral

Only in Admiral

OrangeTeaFreshPineResinHerbal

Property

PropertyHorizonAdmiral
Alpha acid8.8–12%13–16.2%
Beta acid5.5–7.5%4.8–6.1%
Co-humulone16–19%37–45%
Total oil0.5–1.5 mL1–1.7 mL
Myrcene45–55%39–48%
Humulene10–20%23–26%
Caryophyllene8–14%6–8%
Farnesene3–5%0–2%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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