GlaciervsOpal

Glacier and Opal are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Glacier

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

3.3–9.7%

Beta acid

5.4–10%

Total oil

0.5–1.5 mL

United States

Opal

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–14%

Beta acid

3.5–5.5%

Total oil

0.8–1.3 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Glacier

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

When to pick Opal

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Glacier

PlumBlackberryWoodyCedar

Only in Opal

Black currantCitrusSpicyFloralHerbalAnise

Property

PropertyGlacierOpal
Alpha acid3.3–9.7%5–14%
Beta acid5.4–10%3.5–5.5%
Co-humulone11–16%13–34%
Total oil0.5–1.5 mL0.8–1.3 mL
Myrcene35–45%20–45%
Humulene25–35%30–50%
Caryophyllene8–13%8–15%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

Related comparisons