Magnum (US)vsNorthern Brewer (US)
Magnum (US) and Northern Brewer (US) are popular bittering hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Magnum (US)
Alpha acid
10–16%
Beta acid
4.5–7%
Total oil
1.6–3 mL
United States
Northern Brewer (US)
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
3–5.5%
Total oil
1–2 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
When to pick Northern Brewer (US)
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Black currant
Only in Magnum (US)
FloralCitrusSpicyNutmeg
Only in Northern Brewer (US)
PineWoodyMint
Property
| Property | Magnum (US) | Northern Brewer (US) |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 10–16% | 7–10% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–7% | 3–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 21–30% | 27–34% |
| Total oil | 1.6–3 mL | 1–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–45% | 35–45% |
| Humulene | 30–45% | 27–31% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–12% | 11–15% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Bittering |