Mount HoodvsPahto

Mount Hood (aroma) and Pahto (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Mount Hood

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.9–8%

Beta acid

5–8%

Total oil

1.2–1.7 mL

United States

Pahto

Bittering

Alpha acid

17–20%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

1–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Mount Hood

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Pahto

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Herbal

Only in Mount Hood

NoblePungentSpicy

Only in Pahto

NeutralEarthyCleanSmooth

Property

PropertyMount HoodPahto
Alpha acid3.9–8%17–20%
Beta acid5–8%4.5–6%
Co-humulone21–23%26–32%
Total oil1.2–1.7 mL1–2.5 mL
Myrcene30–40%58–72%
Humulene12–38%8–11%
Caryophyllene7–16%3–6%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaBittering

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