TargetvsColumbus

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

Target

Bittering

Alpha acid

8.5–13.5%

Beta acid

4.3–5.7%

Total oil

1–1.4 mL

United Kingdom

Columbus

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14–18%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Target

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Columbus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusSpicy

Only in Target

MarmaladeSagePepper

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurryFloralPungentDankCannabis

Property

PropertyTargetColumbus
Alpha acid8.5–13.5%14–18%
Beta acid4.3–5.7%4.5–6%
Co-humulone35–40%28–35%
Total oil1–1.4 mL2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene45–55%45–55%
Humulene17–23%9–14%
Caryophyllene8–10%6–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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