TettnangervsColumbus

Tettnanger and Columbus are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Tettnanger

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

2.5–5.8%

Beta acid

2.8–5.3%

Total oil

0.4–1.1 mL

Germany

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 Tettnanger

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

When to pick Columbus

  • 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

SpicyFloralBlack currant

Only in Tettnanger

Pepper

Only in Columbus

EarthyLicoriceCurryCitrusPungentDankCannabis

Property

PropertyTettnangerColumbus
Alpha acid2.5–5.8%14–18%
Beta acid2.8–5.3%4.5–6%
Co-humulone22–28%28–35%
Total oil0.4–1.1 mL2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene40–41%45–55%
Humulene20–21%9–14%
Caryophyllene6–7%6–10%
Farnesene11–12%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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