Lambic
Alpha acid
1–2%
Beta acid
2.8–5%
Total oil
0.8–1.2 mL
United States
Admiral
Alpha acid
13–16.2%
Beta acid
4.8–6.1%
Total oil
1–1.7 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Lambic
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Admiral
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Lambic
GrassySpicyWoody
Only in Admiral
OrangeTeaFreshPineCitrusResinHerbal
Property
| Property | Lambic | Admiral |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 1–2% | 13–16.2% |
| Beta acid | 2.8–5% | 4.8–6.1% |
| Co-humulone | 29–35% | 37–45% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.2 mL | 1–1.7 mL |
| Myrcene | - | 39–48% |
| Humulene | - | 23–26% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 6–8% |
| Farnesene | - | 0–2% |
| Origin | United States | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Aroma | Bittering |