Zappa
Alpha acid
6–9%
Beta acid
8–9%
Total oil
1.8–2.5 mL
United States
Ahtanum
Alpha acid
3.5–6.5%
Beta acid
4–6.5%
Total oil
0.5–1.7 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Zappa
- 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
When to pick Ahtanum
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
CitrusPine
Only in Zappa
MintSavoryFruityMangoPassion fruitTropicalSpicyFresh
Only in Ahtanum
GrapefruitGeraniumEarthyFloralCedarLemon
Property
| Property | Zappa | Ahtanum |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 6–9% | 3.5–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 8–9% | 4–6.5% |
| Co-humulone | 40–45% | 30–35% |
| Total oil | 1.8–2.5 mL | 0.5–1.7 mL |
| Myrcene | 64–65% | 45–55% |
| Humulene | 4–5% | 15–22% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–9% | 9–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |