MinstrelvsAhtanum

Minstrel (dual purpose) and Ahtanum (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Minstrel

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–7%

Beta acid

3–3.5%

Total oil

0.5–0.7 mL

United Kingdom

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 Minstrel

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Ahtanum

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Minstrel

HerbalSpicyBerryOrange

Only in Ahtanum

CitrusGrapefruitGeraniumPineEarthyFloralCedarLemon

Property

PropertyMinstrelAhtanum
Alpha acid5–7%3.5–6.5%
Beta acid3–3.5%4–6.5%
Co-humulone22–26%30–35%
Total oil0.5–0.7 mL0.5–1.7 mL
Myrcene22–25%45–55%
Humulene1–4%15–22%
Caryophyllene-9–12%
Farnesene7–9%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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