PolarisvsWillamette
Polaris and Willamette are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Polaris
Alpha acid
18–23%
Beta acid
4.5–6.5%
Total oil
4–5 mL
Germany
Willamette
Alpha acid
4–7.2%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
0.6–1.6 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Polaris
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
When to pick Willamette
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Polaris
MintMentholPineapple
Only in Willamette
CitrusIncenseElderberryCaramelCurryFloral
Property
| Property | Polaris | Willamette |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 18–23% | 4–7.2% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6.5% | 3–4.5% |
| Co-humulone | 22–29% | 28–35% |
| Total oil | 4–5 mL | 0.6–1.6 mL |
| Myrcene | 49–51% | 30–40% |
| Humulene | 20–35% | 20–27% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–13% | 7–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 5–6% |
| Origin | Germany | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |
Fuggle
Styrian Golding