Lambic
Alpha acid
1–2%
Beta acid
2.8–5%
Total oil
0.8–1.2 mL
United States
Target
Alpha acid
8.5–13.5%
Beta acid
4.3–5.7%
Total oil
1–1.4 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Lambic
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Target
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Spicy
Only in Lambic
GrassyWoody
Only in Target
CitrusMarmaladeSagePepper
Property
| Property | Lambic | Target |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 1–2% | 8.5–13.5% |
| Beta acid | 2.8–5% | 4.3–5.7% |
| Co-humulone | 29–35% | 35–40% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.2 mL | 1–1.4 mL |
| Myrcene | - | 45–55% |
| Humulene | - | 17–23% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 8–10% |
| Farnesene | - | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Aroma | Bittering |