ZenithvsTarget

Zenith and Target are popular bittering hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Zenith

Bittering

Alpha acid

9–11%

Beta acid

3%

Total oil

-

United States

Target

Bittering

Alpha acid

8.5–13.5%

Beta acid

4.3–5.7%

Total oil

1–1.4 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Zenith

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

When to pick Target

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Zenith

Floral

Only in Target

MarmaladeSageSpicyPepper

Property

PropertyZenithTarget
Alpha acid9–11%8.5–13.5%
Beta acid3%4.3–5.7%
Co-humulone25%35–40%
Total oil-1–1.4 mL
Myrcene51–53%45–55%
Humulene18–20%17–23%
Caryophyllene6–7%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeBitteringBittering

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