USDA 008vsColumbus

USDA 008 and Columbus are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

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

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 USDA 008

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

FloralCitrus

Only in USDA 008

SweetPeachMangoStone fruit

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyPungentDankCannabis

Property

PropertyUSDA 008Columbus
Alpha acid10.1–11.1%14–18%
Beta acid2.7–3.3%4.5–6%
Co-humulone25–26%28–35%
Total oil1.6–1.7 mL2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene6–7%45–55%
Humulene48–49%9–14%
Caryophyllene16–17%6–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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