VitalvsChinook

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

Vital

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–16%

Beta acid

6–11%

Total oil

1.1–2.5 mL

Czech Republic

Chinook

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–15%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Vital

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

When to pick Chinook

  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Vital

PlumLavenderLicorice

Only in Chinook

PineResinGrapefruitDankCannabis

Property

PropertyVitalChinook
Alpha acid9–16%11.5–15%
Beta acid6–11%3–4%
Co-humulone21–26%27–35%
Total oil1.1–2.5 mL1–2.7 mL
Myrcene40–60%20–30%
Humulene2–5%18–24%
Caryophyllene5–8%9–11%
Farnesene1–3%0–1%
OriginCzech RepublicUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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