Petit BlancvsWillamette

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

Petit Blanc

Aroma

Alpha acid

2–4%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

0.5–0.8 mL

France

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 Petit Blanc

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Willamette

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Petit Blanc

CherryMelonPapayaGreenLilac

Only in Willamette

CitrusIncenseElderberryCaramelCurryFloral

Property

PropertyPetit BlancWillamette
Alpha acid2–4%4–7.2%
Beta acid5–6%3–4.5%
Co-humulone15%28–35%
Total oil0.5–0.8 mL0.6–1.6 mL
Myrcene-30–40%
Humulene-20–27%
Caryophyllene-7–8%
Farnesene-5–6%
OriginFranceUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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