WillamettevsZenith

Willamette (dual purpose) and Zenith (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

Zenith

Bittering

Alpha acid

9–11%

Beta acid

3%

Total oil

-

United States

Key differences

When to pick Willamette

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Zenith

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusFloral

Only in Willamette

IncenseElderberryCaramelCurry

Only in Zenith

-

Property

PropertyWillametteZenith
Alpha acid4–7.2%9–11%
Beta acid3–4.5%3%
Co-humulone28–35%25%
Total oil0.6–1.6 mL-
Myrcene30–40%51–53%
Humulene20–27%18–20%
Caryophyllene7–8%6–7%
Farnesene5–6%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

Related comparisons