Northern Brewer (US)vsAzacca

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

Northern Brewer (US)

Bittering

Alpha acid

7–10%

Beta acid

3–5.5%

Total oil

1–2 mL

United States

Azacca

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14–16%

Beta acid

4–5.5%

Total oil

1.6–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Northern Brewer (US)

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Azacca

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Northern Brewer (US)

PineWoodyMintBlack currant

Only in Azacca

MangoPapayaOrangeGrapefruitLemonSpicyPineappleGrassyTropicalCitrus

Property

PropertyNorthern Brewer (US)Azacca
Alpha acid7–10%14–16%
Beta acid3–5.5%4–5.5%
Co-humulone27–34%38–45%
Total oil1–2 mL1.6–2.5 mL
Myrcene35–45%46–55%
Humulene27–31%14–18%
Caryophyllene11–15%8–12%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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