SummitvsZenith

Summit and Zenith are popular bittering hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Summit

Bittering

Alpha acid

15–17.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

Zenith

Bittering

Alpha acid

9–11%

Beta acid

3%

Total oil

-

United States

Key differences

When to pick Summit

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Zenith

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Summit

Black currantAniseIncenseOrangeGrapefruitTangerineEarthyOnionGarlicDankCannabis

Only in Zenith

Floral

Property

PropertySummitZenith
Alpha acid15–17.5%9–11%
Beta acid4–6.5%3%
Co-humulone26–33%25%
Total oil1.5–3 mL-
Myrcene30–40%51–53%
Humulene18–22%18–20%
Caryophyllene12–16%6–7%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringBittering

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