Ella
Alpha acid
13.3–19.2%
Beta acid
4–7.8%
Total oil
2.4–3.4 mL
Australia
Opal
Alpha acid
5–14%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
0.8–1.3 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Ella
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
When to pick Opal
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
FloralSpicyAnise
Only in Ella
GrapefruitTropicalNoble
Only in Opal
Black currantCitrusHerbal
Property
| Property | Ella | Opal |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 13.3–19.2% | 5–14% |
| Beta acid | 4–7.8% | 3.5–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 33–40% | 13–34% |
| Total oil | 2.4–3.4 mL | 0.8–1.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 34–50% | 20–45% |
| Humulene | 15–22% | 30–50% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–18% | 8–15% |
| Farnesene | 12–14% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Australia | Germany |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |
Palisade
Styrian Golding