WillamettevsColumbus
Willamette and Columbus are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Willamette
Alpha acid
4–7.2%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
0.6–1.6 mL
United States
Columbus
Alpha acid
14–18%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Willamette
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick Columbus
- 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
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
CitrusCurryFloral
Only in Willamette
IncenseElderberryCaramel
Only in Columbus
EarthyBlack currantLicoriceSpicyPungentDankCannabis
Property
| Property | Willamette | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4–7.2% | 14–18% |
| Beta acid | 3–4.5% | 4.5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 28–35% | 28–35% |
| Total oil | 0.6–1.6 mL | 2.5–4.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–40% | 45–55% |
| Humulene | 20–27% | 9–14% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–8% | 6–10% |
| Farnesene | 5–6% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |
Fuggle
Styrian Golding