Magnum (US)vsNorthdown
Magnum (US) (bittering) and Northdown (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Magnum (US)
Alpha acid
10–16%
Beta acid
4.5–7%
Total oil
1.6–3 mL
United States
Northdown
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
4–5.5%
Total oil
1.2–2.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Magnum (US)
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Northdown
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
FloralSpicy
Only in Magnum (US)
CitrusNutmegBlack currant
Only in Northdown
PineCedarBerry
Property
| Property | Magnum (US) | Northdown |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 10–16% | 7–10% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–7% | 4–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 21–30% | 24–32% |
| Total oil | 1.6–3 mL | 1.2–2.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–45% | 23–29% |
| Humulene | 30–45% | 40–45% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–12% | 13–17% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |