TillicumvsChinook

Tillicum (bittering) and Chinook (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

Chinook

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–15%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2.7 mL

United States

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 Chinook

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Tillicum

Stone fruitCitrus

Only in Chinook

PineResinGrapefruitSpicyDankCannabis

Property

PropertyTillicumChinook
Alpha acid13.5–15.5%11.5–15%
Beta acid9.5–11.5%3–4%
Co-humulone35%27–35%
Total oil-1–2.7 mL
Myrcene39–41%20–30%
Humulene13–15%18–24%
Caryophyllene7–8%9–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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