BergamotvsNelson Sauvin

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

Bergamot

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8–10.7%

Beta acid

6–8.9%

Total oil

-

United States

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 Bergamot

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Nelson Sauvin

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Bergamot

OrangeMangoDankCherryZestLemongrassLimeJuniperTropicalPepperFloral

Only in Nelson Sauvin

WhiteFruityGooseberryGrapesSauvignon

Property

PropertyBergamotNelson Sauvin
Alpha acid8–10.7%10–13%
Beta acid6–8.9%5–8%
Co-humulone39–40%20–25%
Total oil-0.8–1.5 mL
Myrcene44–45%20–45%
Humulene14–15%25–37%
Caryophyllene9–10%6–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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