AdmiralvsNelson Sauvin
Admiral (bittering) and Nelson Sauvin (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Admiral
Alpha acid
13–16.2%
Beta acid
4.8–6.1%
Total oil
1–1.7 mL
United Kingdom
Nelson Sauvin
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
| Property | Admiral | Nelson Sauvin |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 13–16.2% | 10–13% |
| Beta acid | 4.8–6.1% | 5–8% |
| Co-humulone | 37–45% | 20–25% |
| Total oil | 1–1.7 mL | 0.8–1.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 39–48% | 20–45% |
| Humulene | 23–26% | 25–37% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–8% | 6–11% |
| Farnesene | 0–2% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |