VitalvsColumbus

Vital and Columbus 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

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 Vital

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

When to pick Columbus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

SpicyLicorice

Only in Vital

PlumLavender

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantCurryCitrusFloralPungentDankCannabis

Property

PropertyVitalColumbus
Alpha acid9–16%14–18%
Beta acid6–11%4.5–6%
Co-humulone21–26%28–35%
Total oil1.1–2.5 mL2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene40–60%45–55%
Humulene2–5%9–14%
Caryophyllene5–8%6–10%
Farnesene1–3%0–1%
OriginCzech RepublicUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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