OlympicvsFuggle

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

Olympic

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10.6–13.8%

Beta acid

3.8–6.1%

Total oil

0.86–2.55 mL

United States

Fuggle

Aroma

Alpha acid

2.4–6.1%

Beta acid

2.1–3.5%

Total oil

0.44–1 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Olympic

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Fuggle

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Olympic

CitrusSpicy

Only in Fuggle

WoodyGrassyMintMild

Property

PropertyOlympicFuggle
Alpha acid10.6–13.8%2.4–6.1%
Beta acid3.8–6.1%2.1–3.5%
Co-humulone31%25–32%
Total oil0.86–2.55 mL0.44–1 mL
Myrcene45–55%15–25%
Humulene9–13%30–40%
Caryophyllene7–12%11–15%
Farnesene0–1%5–8%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeAroma

Related comparisons