EnigmavsNectaron

Enigma and Nectaron are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Enigma

Aroma

Alpha acid

13.5–19.4%

Beta acid

4.5–7.1%

Total oil

1.8–3 mL

Australia

Nectaron

Aroma

Alpha acid

9.5–12%

Beta acid

4.5–5%

Total oil

1–1.7 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Enigma

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

When to pick Nectaron

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Tropical

Only in Enigma

BerryStone fruitRaspberryRedcurrantWhite

Only in Nectaron

CitrusPineapplePassion fruitPeachGrapefruitNectar

Property

PropertyEnigmaNectaron
Alpha acid13.5–19.4%9.5–12%
Beta acid4.5–7.1%4.5–5%
Co-humulone37–43%26–28%
Total oil1.8–3 mL1–1.7 mL
Myrcene23–30%59–65%
Humulene12–19%10–20%
Caryophyllene6–8%4–5%
Farnesene9–12%0–1%
OriginAustraliaNew Zealand
PurposeAromaAroma

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