LambicvsCentennial
Lambic (aroma) and Centennial (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Lambic
Alpha acid
1–2%
Beta acid
2.8–5%
Total oil
0.8–1.2 mL
United States
Centennial
Alpha acid
7–12%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
1–3 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Lambic
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Centennial
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Lambic
GrassySpicyWoody
Only in Centennial
PineCitrusFloralGrapefruitTangerine
Property
| Property | Lambic | Centennial |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 1–2% | 7–12% |
| Beta acid | 2.8–5% | 3.5–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 29–35% | 23–30% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.2 mL | 1–3 mL |
| Myrcene | - | 55–65% |
| Humulene | - | 10–20% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 5–7% |
| Farnesene | - | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |