Alpha/beta acids?

[beerbro]

Could someone explain alpha and beta acid in hops to me? Higher alpha more bitterness was what I thought for the alpha side but I have no idea what beta measures.

Brew on

 

[Suthrncomfrt1884]

Well...both acids can cause bitterness, but alpha acids are around 9 times stronger than beta acids. Because of this, beta acids aren't really concidered for their bittering flavor, more for their bittering aroma. Most aroma hops tend to be higher in beta acids, which results in a better smell.

 

[beerbro]

Oh ok thanks for clearing that up.