Magnum (US) Hops

BitteringAlpha 10.0 - 16.0%United States

Magnum (US) is the "gold standard" of clean bittering hops, prized by brewers globally for its immense reliability and neutral character. While originally developed in the Hallertau region of Germany, the US-grown version has carved out its own niche in the fertile soils of the Yakima Valley and Idaho. Though grown on much lower acreage than its German counterpart, the American version remains a true workhorse variety; its high alpha acid content allows brewers to achieve precise IBU targets with minimal plant material, effectively reducing trub loss and maximizing beer yield. Whether anchoring a delicate lager or providing the structural backbone for a massive West Coast IPA, US Magnum (US) delivers a professional, polished bitterness that lets specialty malts and aroma hops shine without interference.

The profile of Magnum (US) is defined by its restraint and structural integrity. Unlike "loud" aroma hops that dominate a recipe, Magnum (US) is valued for what it doesn't do: it does not impart harsh, grassy, or lingering astringency. Instead, it offers a very clean, "firm" bitterness with an exceptionally subtle aromatic backdrop. When used in small amounts for late additions, it reveals a refined, "kitchen-spice" bouquet of black pepper, nutmeg, and a faint, earthy spice reminiscent of its European heritage. Thanks to its remarkably low cohumulone levels, the bitterness is perceived as smooth and rounded on the palate rather than sharp or jagged. It is the definitive choice for any brewer who views bitterness as a foundational element that should support, rather than dominate, the flavor architecture of the beer.

Substitution Tip

If you can't find Magnum (US), the best alternatives are Columbus, Galena, Horizon, or Warrior®.

At A Glance

ProfileBlack Pepper, Nutmeg, Earthy Spice
PurposeBittering
Alpha Acid10.0 - 16.0%
SubstitutesColumbus, Galena, Horizon, Warrior®
Pairs withCascade (to brighten with citrus), Hallertau (for classic noble spice), Northern Brewer (to double down on a woody/herbal foundation)
Beer StylesPilsner, Helles, Stout, IPA, Barleywine, Blonde Ale

General Information

Country
United States
Alias
Yakima Magnum
Storage Stability
Retains 80 - 85% alpha acid

Brewing Chemistry (Acids & Oils)

Alpha Acid
10.0 - 16.0%
Beta Acid
5.0 - 7.0%
Cohumulone
21.0 - 29.0%
Total Oil
1.5 - 2.5 mg/100g
Myrcene
30.0 - 45.%
Humulene
30.0 - 45.0%
Caryophyllene
8.0 - 12.0%
Farnesene
< 1.0%
Linalool
0.2 - 0.5%
Geraniol
< 1.0%
Total Polyphenols
2.0 - 3.0%

Growth & Cultivation

Yield
1,700 - 2,200 lbs/acre
Maturity
Mid to Late Season
Resistant
Verticillium Wilt (high), Downy Mildew
Growth Rate
High / Vigorous
Cones
Large, heavy, and very dense. The cones are ovoid in shape and packed with a high concentration of g
Ease of Harvest
Excellent; the bines are physically strong and the cones detach easily during mechanical picking. It
Sex
Female
Leaf Color
Deep Green
Side Arm Length
20" - 40" (long)

Magnum (US) Aroma/Flavor Profile

Aroma
CitrusTropical FruitStone FruitApple/PearMelonBerryFloralSpicy/Herbal

Discovery Tags

Usage

Last Updated
  • 2026-05-04 14:07:52