Melba
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
2.5–5%
Total oil
2–4 mL
Australia
Columbus
Alpha acid
14–18%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Melba
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Columbus
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
CitrusSpicy
Only in Melba
Passion fruitGrapefruit
Only in Columbus
EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurryFloralPungentDankCannabis
Property
| Property | Melba | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 7–10% | 14–18% |
| Beta acid | 2.5–5% | 4.5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 25–35% | 28–35% |
| Total oil | 2–4 mL | 2.5–4.5 mL |
| Myrcene | - | 45–55% |
| Humulene | - | 9–14% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 6–10% |
| Farnesene | - | 0–1% |
| Origin | Australia | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |