OmegavsNorthdown

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

Omega

Aroma

Alpha acid

9–10%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

-

United Kingdom

Northdown

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–10%

Beta acid

4–5.5%

Total oil

1.2–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Omega

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

When to pick Northdown

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • 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 Omega

-

Only in Northdown

FloralPineCedarBerrySpicy

Property

PropertyOmegaNorthdown
Alpha acid9–10%7–10%
Beta acid3–4%4–5.5%
Co-humulone29%24–32%
Total oil-1.2–2.5 mL
Myrcene52–54%23–29%
Humulene16–18%40–45%
Caryophyllene4–6%13–17%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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