PilotvsAzacca

Pilot (bittering) and Azacca (dual purpose) 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

Azacca

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14–16%

Beta acid

4–5.5%

Total oil

1.6–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Pilot

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Azacca

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

LemonSpicy

Only in Pilot

Marmalade

Only in Azacca

MangoPapayaOrangeGrapefruitPineappleGrassyTropicalCitrus

Property

PropertyPilotAzacca
Alpha acid8–11.5%14–16%
Beta acid3.3–5%4–5.5%
Co-humulone28–37%38–45%
Total oil0.8–1.5 mL1.6–2.5 mL
Myrcene35–40%46–55%
Humulene3–6%14–18%
Caryophyllene-8–12%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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