PilotvsAmarillo

Pilot (bittering) and Amarillo (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Pilot

Bittering

Alpha acid

8–11.5%

Beta acid

3.3–5%

Total oil

0.8–1.5 mL

United Kingdom

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Pilot

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Amarillo

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • 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

LemonSpicy

Only in Pilot

Marmalade

Only in Amarillo

FloralTropicalCitrusOrangeMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Property

PropertyPilotAmarillo
Alpha acid8–11.5%7–11%
Beta acid3.3–5%5.5–8%
Co-humulone28–37%21–24%
Total oil0.8–1.5 mL1–2.3 mL
Myrcene35–40%40–70%
Humulene3–6%19–24%
Caryophyllene-7–10%
Farnesene0–1%6–9%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeBitteringAroma

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