NorthdownvsOmega

Northdown (dual purpose) and Omega (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

Omega

Aroma

Alpha acid

9–10%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

-

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Northdown

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Omega

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Northdown

FloralPineCedarBerrySpicy

Only in Omega

-

Property

PropertyNorthdownOmega
Alpha acid7–10%9–10%
Beta acid4–5.5%3–4%
Co-humulone24–32%29%
Total oil1.2–2.5 mL-
Myrcene23–29%52–54%
Humulene40–45%16–18%
Caryophyllene13–17%4–6%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeAroma

Related comparisons