ZeusvsChinook

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

Zeus

Bittering

Alpha acid

13–17.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

2.4–4.5 mL

United States

Chinook

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–15%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2.7 mL

United States

Key differences

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

When to pick Chinook

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Zeus

Black currantLicoriceCurryPungent

Only in Chinook

PineResinGrapefruitSpicyDankCannabis

Property

PropertyZeusChinook
Alpha acid13–17.5%11.5–15%
Beta acid4–6.5%3–4%
Co-humulone28–40%27–35%
Total oil2.4–4.5 mL1–2.7 mL
Myrcene45–60%20–30%
Humulene9–18%18–24%
Caryophyllene6–11%9–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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