USDA 008vsMount Hood

USDA 008 (dual purpose) and Mount Hood (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

Mount Hood

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.9–8%

Beta acid

5–8%

Total oil

1.2–1.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick USDA 008

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Mount Hood

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in USDA 008

FloralCitrusSweetPeachMangoStone fruit

Only in Mount Hood

NobleHerbalPungentSpicy

Property

PropertyUSDA 008Mount Hood
Alpha acid10.1–11.1%3.9–8%
Beta acid2.7–3.3%5–8%
Co-humulone25–26%21–23%
Total oil1.6–1.7 mL1.2–1.7 mL
Myrcene6–7%30–40%
Humulene48–49%12–38%
Caryophyllene16–17%7–16%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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