USDA 008vsAmarillo

USDA 008 (dual purpose) and Amarillo (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

USDA 008

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10.1–11.1%

Beta acid

2.7–3.3%

Total oil

1.6–1.7 mL

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 USDA 008

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Amarillo

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralCitrusPeach

Only in USDA 008

SweetMangoStone fruit

Only in Amarillo

SpicyTropicalOrangeLemonMelonApricotGrapefruitDank

Property

PropertyUSDA 008Amarillo
Alpha acid10.1–11.1%7–11%
Beta acid2.7–3.3%5.5–8%
Co-humulone25–26%21–24%
Total oil1.6–1.7 mL1–2.3 mL
Myrcene6–7%40–70%
Humulene48–49%19–24%
Caryophyllene16–17%7–10%
Farnesene0–1%6–9%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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