TillicumvsAfrican Queen

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

Tillicum

Bittering

Alpha acid

13.5–15.5%

Beta acid

9.5–11.5%

Total oil

-

United States

African Queen

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10–17%

Beta acid

3.9–6.2%

Total oil

0.7–1.5 mL

South Africa

Key differences

When to pick Tillicum

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick African Queen

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Stone fruitCitrus

Only in Tillicum

-

Only in African Queen

DankBlueberryBlack currantGooseberryBubblegumCassisLemongrassChiliesGazpacho

Property

PropertyTillicumAfrican Queen
Alpha acid13.5–15.5%10–17%
Beta acid9.5–11.5%3.9–6.2%
Co-humulone35%22–30%
Total oil-0.7–1.5 mL
Myrcene39–41%20–29%
Humulene13–15%21–30%
Caryophyllene7–8%10–17%
Farnesene0–1%5–7%
OriginUnited StatesSouth Africa
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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