TargetvsZenith

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

Target

Bittering

Alpha acid

8.5–13.5%

Beta acid

4.3–5.7%

Total oil

1–1.4 mL

United Kingdom

Zenith

Bittering

Alpha acid

9–11%

Beta acid

3%

Total oil

-

United States

Key differences

When to pick Target

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

When to pick Zenith

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Target

MarmaladeSageSpicyPepper

Only in Zenith

Floral

Property

PropertyTargetZenith
Alpha acid8.5–13.5%9–11%
Beta acid4.3–5.7%3%
Co-humulone35–40%25%
Total oil1–1.4 mL-
Myrcene45–55%51–53%
Humulene17–23%18–20%
Caryophyllene8–10%6–7%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeBitteringBittering

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