GaiavsNugget

Gaia (bittering) and Nugget (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Gaia

Bittering

Alpha acid

12–15%

Beta acid

5–10%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

Czech Republic

Nugget

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9.5–16%

Beta acid

3–5.8%

Total oil

0.9–3.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Gaia

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Nugget

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Gaia

HoppySpicy

Only in Nugget

HerbalCitrusGingerPineappleGeraniumLycheeHerbalEarthyCoconut

Property

PropertyGaiaNugget
Alpha acid12–15%9.5–16%
Beta acid5–10%3–5.8%
Co-humulone20–29%22–30%
Total oil1.5–2.5 mL0.9–3.3 mL
Myrcene23–37%48–59%
Humulene2–4%12–22%
Caryophyllene9–12%7–10%
Farnesene5–7%0–1%
OriginCzech RepublicUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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