NorthdownvsAmarillo

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

Northdown

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–10%

Beta acid

4–5.5%

Total oil

1.2–2.5 mL

United States

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Northdown

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Amarillo

  • 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

Shared aromas

FloralSpicy

Only in Northdown

PineCedarBerry

Only in Amarillo

TropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Property

PropertyNorthdownAmarillo
Alpha acid7–10%7–11%
Beta acid4–5.5%5.5–8%
Co-humulone24–32%21–24%
Total oil1.2–2.5 mL1–2.3 mL
Myrcene23–29%40–70%
Humulene40–45%19–24%
Caryophyllene13–17%7–10%
Farnesene0–1%6–9%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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