TillicumvsAmarillo

Tillicum (bittering) and Amarillo (aroma) 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

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Tillicum

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Amarillo

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Tillicum

Stone fruit

Only in Amarillo

FloralSpicyTropicalOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Property

PropertyTillicumAmarillo
Alpha acid13.5–15.5%7–11%
Beta acid9.5–11.5%5.5–8%
Co-humulone35%21–24%
Total oil-1–2.3 mL
Myrcene39–41%40–70%
Humulene13–15%19–24%
Caryophyllene7–8%7–10%
Farnesene0–1%6–9%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringAroma

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