USDA 008vsTomahawk

USDA 008 and Tomahawk 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

Tomahawk

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

15–17.5%

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 Tomahawk

  • 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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in USDA 008

FloralSweetPeachMangoStone fruit

Only in Tomahawk

Black currantLicoriceCurryOnion

Property

PropertyUSDA 008Tomahawk
Alpha acid10.1–11.1%15–17.5%
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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