PioneervsAmarillo

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

Pioneer

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8–10.5%

Beta acid

3.5–4.5%

Total oil

1–1.8 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 Pioneer

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Amarillo

  • 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

GrapefruitLemonGrapefruit

Only in Pioneer

CedarHerbalCrispClean

Only in Amarillo

FloralSpicyTropicalCitrusOrangeMelonApricotPeachDank

Property

PropertyPioneerAmarillo
Alpha acid8–10.5%7–11%
Beta acid3.5–4.5%5.5–8%
Co-humulone36–40%21–24%
Total oil1–1.8 mL1–2.3 mL
Myrcene34–36%40–70%
Humulene18–25%19–24%
Caryophyllene-7–10%
Farnesene0–1%6–9%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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