MelbavsAhtanum

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

Melba

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–10%

Beta acid

2.5–5%

Total oil

2–4 mL

Australia

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 Melba

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

When to pick Ahtanum

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

GrapefruitCitrus

Only in Melba

Passion fruitSpicy

Only in Ahtanum

GeraniumPineEarthyFloralCedarLemon

Property

PropertyMelbaAhtanum
Alpha acid7–10%3.5–6.5%
Beta acid2.5–5%4–6.5%
Co-humulone25–35%30–35%
Total oil2–4 mL0.5–1.7 mL
Myrcene-45–55%
Humulene-15–22%
Caryophyllene-9–12%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginAustraliaUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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