MackinacvsAhtanum

Mackinac and Ahtanum are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Mackinac

Aroma

Alpha acid

9–14%

Beta acid

2.8–4%

Total oil

1.5–2.2 mL

United States

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 Mackinac

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma

When to pick Ahtanum

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusFloral

Only in Mackinac

TropicalMelonPapayaSpicyBlack currant

Only in Ahtanum

GrapefruitGeraniumPineEarthyCedarLemon

Property

PropertyMackinacAhtanum
Alpha acid9–14%3.5–6.5%
Beta acid2.8–4%4–6.5%
Co-humulone28–35%30–35%
Total oil1.5–2.2 mL0.5–1.7 mL
Myrcene15–17%45–55%
Humulene11–12%15–22%
Caryophyllene4–5%9–12%
Farnesene1–2%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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