SummitvsZappa

Summit (bittering) and Zappa (aroma) 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

Zappa

Aroma

Alpha acid

6–9%

Beta acid

8–9%

Total oil

1.8–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Summit

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Zappa

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Summit

Black currantAniseIncenseOrangeGrapefruitTangerineEarthyOnionGarlicDankCannabis

Only in Zappa

MintSavoryFruityMangoPassion fruitTropicalPineSpicyFresh

Property

PropertySummitZappa
Alpha acid15–17.5%6–9%
Beta acid4–6.5%8–9%
Co-humulone26–33%40–45%
Total oil1.5–3 mL1.8–2.5 mL
Myrcene30–40%64–65%
Humulene18–22%4–5%
Caryophyllene12–16%8–9%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringAroma

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