OrionvsAmarillo

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

Orion

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6–9%

Beta acid

2.5–5.75%

Total oil

0.8–2.1 mL

Germany

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Orion

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Amarillo

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Orion

-

Only in Amarillo

FloralTropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Property

PropertyOrionAmarillo
Alpha acid6–9%7–11%
Beta acid2.5–5.75%5.5–8%
Co-humulone25–30%21–24%
Total oil0.8–2.1 mL1–2.3 mL
Myrcene41–56%40–70%
Humulene16–26%19–24%
Caryophyllene6–13%7–10%
Farnesene0–1%6–9%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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