AdmiralvsNelson Sauvin

Admiral (bittering) and Nelson Sauvin (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Admiral

Bittering

Alpha acid

13–16.2%

Beta acid

4.8–6.1%

Total oil

1–1.7 mL

United Kingdom

Nelson Sauvin

Aroma

Alpha acid

10–13%

Beta acid

5–8%

Total oil

0.8–1.5 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Admiral

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Nelson Sauvin

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Admiral

OrangeTeaFreshPineCitrusResinHerbal

Only in Nelson Sauvin

WhiteFruityGooseberryGrapesSauvignon

Property

PropertyAdmiralNelson Sauvin
Alpha acid13–16.2%10–13%
Beta acid4.8–6.1%5–8%
Co-humulone37–45%20–25%
Total oil1–1.7 mL0.8–1.5 mL
Myrcene39–48%20–45%
Humulene23–26%25–37%
Caryophyllene6–8%6–11%
Farnesene0–2%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomNew Zealand
PurposeBitteringAroma

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