XJA2/436vsCentennial
XJA2/436 (bittering) and Centennial (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
XJA2/436
Alpha acid
11.5–16.4%
Beta acid
7.8–8.4%
Total oil
1.1–1.7 mL
South Africa
Centennial
Alpha acid
7–12%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
1–3 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick XJA2/436
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Centennial
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Citrus
Only in XJA2/436
LemonZestPapayaCataloupeGooseberryResinBlueberry
Only in Centennial
PineFloralGrapefruitTangerine
Property
| Property | XJA2/436 | Centennial |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 11.5–16.4% | 7–12% |
| Beta acid | 7.8–8.4% | 3.5–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 29–30% | 23–30% |
| Total oil | 1.1–1.7 mL | 1–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 18–30% | 55–65% |
| Humulene | 21–35% | 10–20% |
| Caryophyllene | 11–13% | 5–7% |
| Farnesene | 8–18% | 0–1% |
| Origin | South Africa | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |