WillamettevsTarget

Willamette (dual purpose) and Target (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Willamette

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

4–7.2%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

0.6–1.6 mL

United States

Target

Bittering

Alpha acid

8.5–13.5%

Beta acid

4.3–5.7%

Total oil

1–1.4 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Willamette

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Target

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Willamette

IncenseElderberryCaramelCurryFloral

Only in Target

MarmaladeSageSpicyPepper

Property

PropertyWillametteTarget
Alpha acid4–7.2%8.5–13.5%
Beta acid3–4.5%4.3–5.7%
Co-humulone28–35%35–40%
Total oil0.6–1.6 mL1–1.4 mL
Myrcene30–40%45–55%
Humulene20–27%17–23%
Caryophyllene7–8%8–10%
Farnesene5–6%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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