MinstrelvsTomahawk

Minstrel and Tomahawk are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Minstrel

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–7%

Beta acid

3–3.5%

Total oil

0.5–0.7 mL

United Kingdom

Tomahawk

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

15–17.5%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Minstrel

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

When to pick Tomahawk

  • 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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Minstrel

HerbalSpicyBerryOrange

Only in Tomahawk

CitrusBlack currantLicoriceCurryOnion

Property

PropertyMinstrelTomahawk
Alpha acid5–7%15–17.5%
Beta acid3–3.5%4.5–6%
Co-humulone22–26%28–35%
Total oil0.5–0.7 mL2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene22–25%45–55%
Humulene1–4%9–14%
Caryophyllene-6–10%
Farnesene7–9%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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