Zappa
Alpha acid
6–9%
Beta acid
8–9%
Total oil
1.8–2.5 mL
United States
Tomahawk
Alpha acid
15–17.5%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Zappa
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Tomahawk
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Citrus
Only in Zappa
MintSavoryFruityMangoPassion fruitTropicalPineSpicyFresh
Only in Tomahawk
Black currantLicoriceCurryOnion
Property
| Property | Zappa | Tomahawk |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 6–9% | 15–17.5% |
| Beta acid | 8–9% | 4.5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 40–45% | 28–35% |
| Total oil | 1.8–2.5 mL | 2.5–4.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 64–65% | 45–55% |
| Humulene | 4–5% | 9–14% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–9% | 6–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |