KohatuvsAhtanum

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

Kohatu

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6–7%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1–2 mL

New Zealand

Ahtanum

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.5–6.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

0.5–1.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Kohatu

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Ahtanum

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Kohatu

Tropical

Only in Ahtanum

CitrusGrapefruitGeraniumPineEarthyFloralCedarLemon

Property

PropertyKohatuAhtanum
Alpha acid6–7%3.5–6.5%
Beta acid4–6%4–6.5%
Co-humulone20–25%30–35%
Total oil1–2 mL0.5–1.7 mL
Myrcene25–30%45–55%
Humulene30–40%15–22%
Caryophyllene11–16%9–12%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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