SummitvsUSDA 008

Summit (bittering) and USDA 008 (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Summit

Bittering

Alpha acid

15–17.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

USDA 008

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10.1–11.1%

Beta acid

2.7–3.3%

Total oil

1.6–1.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Summit

  • 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
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick USDA 008

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Summit

Black currantAniseIncenseOrangeGrapefruitTangerineEarthyOnionGarlicDankCannabis

Only in USDA 008

FloralSweetPeachMangoStone fruit

Property

PropertySummitUSDA 008
Alpha acid15–17.5%10.1–11.1%
Beta acid4–6.5%2.7–3.3%
Co-humulone26–33%25–26%
Total oil1.5–3 mL1.6–1.7 mL
Myrcene30–40%6–7%
Humulene18–22%48–49%
Caryophyllene12–16%16–17%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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