Yakima GoldvsZeus

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

Yakima Gold

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–8%

Beta acid

3.5–4.5%

Total oil

0.5–1.5 mL

United States

Zeus

Bittering

Alpha acid

13–17.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

2.4–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Yakima Gold

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Zeus

  • 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
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Yakima Gold

SmoothGrapefruitLemon

Only in Zeus

Black currantLicoriceCurryPungent

Property

PropertyYakima GoldZeus
Alpha acid7–8%13–17.5%
Beta acid3.5–4.5%4–6.5%
Co-humulone21–23%28–40%
Total oil0.5–1.5 mL2.4–4.5 mL
Myrcene35–45%45–60%
Humulene18–24%9–18%
Caryophyllene5–9%6–11%
Farnesene8–12%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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