VitalvsFlyer

Vital and Flyer 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

Flyer

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8.3–14.5%

Beta acid

4.1–6%

Total oil

-

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Vital

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

When to pick Flyer

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

SpicyLicorice

Only in Vital

PlumLavender

Only in Flyer

CitrusResinCaramel

Property

PropertyVitalFlyer
Alpha acid9–16%8.3–14.5%
Beta acid6–11%4.1–6%
Co-humulone21–26%26–35%
Total oil1.1–2.5 mL-
Myrcene40–60%17–25%
Humulene2–5%22–23%
Caryophyllene5–8%0–1%
Farnesene1–3%0–1%
OriginCzech RepublicUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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