Northern Brewer (GR)vsGlacier
Northern Brewer (GR) (bittering) and Glacier (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Northern Brewer (GR)
Alpha acid
6–10%
Beta acid
3–5%
Total oil
1–2.1 mL
Germany
Glacier
Alpha acid
3.3–9.7%
Beta acid
5.4–10%
Total oil
0.5–1.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Northern Brewer (GR)
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Glacier
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Northern Brewer (GR)
MintGrassyPine
Only in Glacier
PlumBlackberryWoodyCedar
Property
| Property | Northern Brewer (GR) | Glacier |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 6–10% | 3.3–9.7% |
| Beta acid | 3–5% | 5.4–10% |
| Co-humulone | 27–33% | 11–16% |
| Total oil | 1–2.1 mL | 0.5–1.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 25–45% | 35–45% |
| Humulene | 35–50% | 25–35% |
| Caryophyllene | 10–20% | 8–13% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |
Fuggle
Styrian Golding