ZenithvsAmarillo

Zenith (bittering) and Amarillo (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Zenith

Bittering

Alpha acid

9–11%

Beta acid

3%

Total oil

-

United States

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Zenith

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Amarillo

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralCitrus

Only in Zenith

-

Only in Amarillo

SpicyTropicalOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Property

PropertyZenithAmarillo
Alpha acid9–11%7–11%
Beta acid3%5.5–8%
Co-humulone25%21–24%
Total oil-1–2.3 mL
Myrcene51–53%40–70%
Humulene18–20%19–24%
Caryophyllene6–7%7–10%
Farnesene0–1%6–9%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringAroma

Related comparisons