Styrian CardinalvsColumbus
Styrian Cardinal (aroma) and Columbus (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Styrian Cardinal
Alpha acid
8–15%
Beta acid
3.2–4.6%
Total oil
3–4 mL
Slovenia
Columbus
Alpha acid
14–18%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Styrian Cardinal
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Columbus
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- 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
Citrus
Only in Styrian Cardinal
GooseberryPineappleOrangeLimeJasmineGuava
Only in Columbus
EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyFloralPungentDankCannabis
Property
| Property | Styrian Cardinal | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 8–15% | 14–18% |
| Beta acid | 3.2–4.6% | 4.5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 31–37% | 28–35% |
| Total oil | 3–4 mL | 2.5–4.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 40–50% | 45–55% |
| Humulene | 15–22% | 9–14% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–11% | 6–10% |
| Farnesene | 5–7% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Slovenia | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |