SambavsXJA2/436

Samba (aroma) and XJA2/436 (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Samba

Aroma

Alpha acid

8–12%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

United States

XJA2/436

Bittering

Alpha acid

11.5–16.4%

Beta acid

7.8–8.4%

Total oil

1.1–1.7 mL

South Africa

Key differences

When to pick Samba

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick XJA2/436

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Samba

TropicalPineappleMangoStone fruitCandyOrange

Only in XJA2/436

LemonZestPapayaCataloupeGooseberryResinCitrusBlueberry

Property

PropertySambaXJA2/436
Alpha acid8–12%11.5–16.4%
Beta acid4–6%7.8–8.4%
Co-humulone28–32%29–30%
Total oil1.5–2.5 mL1.1–1.7 mL
Myrcene-18–30%
Humulene-21–35%
Caryophyllene-11–13%
Farnesene-8–18%
OriginUnited StatesSouth Africa
PurposeAromaBittering

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