SussexvsAmarillo

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

Sussex

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.3–5.8%

Beta acid

2.4–3.2%

Total oil

0.4–0.6 mL

United Kingdom

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Sussex

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

When to pick Amarillo

  • 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
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Sussex

EarthyGrassyMintVanilla

Only in Amarillo

FloralSpicyTropicalOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Property

PropertySussexAmarillo
Alpha acid4.3–5.8%7–11%
Beta acid2.4–3.2%5.5–8%
Co-humulone29–32%21–24%
Total oil0.4–0.6 mL1–2.3 mL
Myrcene41–43%40–70%
Humulene22–24%19–24%
Caryophyllene-7–10%
Farnesene0–1%6–9%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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