Northern Brewer (GR)vsChinook

Northern Brewer (GR) (bittering) and Chinook (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Northern Brewer (GR)

Bittering

Alpha acid

6–10%

Beta acid

3–5%

Total oil

1–2.1 mL

Germany

Chinook

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–15%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Northern Brewer (GR)

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Chinook

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Pine

Only in Northern Brewer (GR)

MintGrassy

Only in Chinook

ResinGrapefruitSpicyDankCannabis

Property

PropertyNorthern Brewer (GR)Chinook
Alpha acid6–10%11.5–15%
Beta acid3–5%3–4%
Co-humulone27–33%27–35%
Total oil1–2.1 mL1–2.7 mL
Myrcene25–45%20–30%
Humulene35–50%18–24%
Caryophyllene10–20%9–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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