Bitter GoldvsNelson Sauvin
Bitter Gold (dual purpose) and Nelson Sauvin (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Bitter Gold
Alpha acid
12–18.8%
Beta acid
4.5–8%
Total oil
0.8–3.9 mL
United States
Nelson Sauvin
Alpha acid
10–13%
Beta acid
5–8%
Total oil
0.8–1.5 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick Bitter Gold
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Nelson Sauvin
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Bitter Gold
Stone fruitTropicalPearWatermelonGrassyGrapefruitFloral
Only in Nelson Sauvin
WhiteFruityGooseberryGrapesSauvignon
Property
| Property | Bitter Gold | Nelson Sauvin |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–18.8% | 10–13% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8% | 5–8% |
| Co-humulone | 36–41% | 20–25% |
| Total oil | 0.8–3.9 mL | 0.8–1.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–68% | 20–45% |
| Humulene | 7–18% | 25–37% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–11% | 6–11% |
| Farnesene | 0–2% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Enigma
Hallertau Blanc