OmegavsWillamette

Omega (aroma) and Willamette (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

Willamette

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

4–7.2%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

0.6–1.6 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 Willamette

  • 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 Willamette

CitrusIncenseElderberryCaramelCurryFloral

Property

PropertyOmegaWillamette
Alpha acid9–10%4–7.2%
Beta acid3–4%3–4.5%
Co-humulone29%28–35%
Total oil-0.6–1.6 mL
Myrcene52–54%30–40%
Humulene16–18%20–27%
Caryophyllene4–6%7–8%
Farnesene0–1%5–6%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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