VitalvsAmarillo

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

Vital

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–16%

Beta acid

6–11%

Total oil

1.1–2.5 mL

Czech Republic

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Vital

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Amarillo

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Vital

PlumLavenderLicorice

Only in Amarillo

FloralTropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Property

PropertyVitalAmarillo
Alpha acid9–16%7–11%
Beta acid6–11%5.5–8%
Co-humulone21–26%21–24%
Total oil1.1–2.5 mL1–2.3 mL
Myrcene40–60%40–70%
Humulene2–5%19–24%
Caryophyllene5–8%7–10%
Farnesene1–3%6–9%
OriginCzech RepublicUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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