Liberty
Alpha acid
3–6.5%
Beta acid
3–4%
Total oil
0.6–1.8 mL
United States
Opal
Alpha acid
5–14%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
0.8–1.3 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Liberty
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Opal
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
FloralHerbalSpicyCitrus
Only in Liberty
NobleDelicateLemon
Only in Opal
Black currantAnise
Property
| Property | Liberty | Opal |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 3–6.5% | 5–14% |
| Beta acid | 3–4% | 3.5–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 22–30% | 13–34% |
| Total oil | 0.6–1.8 mL | 0.8–1.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 15–25% | 20–45% |
| Humulene | 35–45% | 30–50% |
| Caryophyllene | 10–15% | 8–15% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |
Styrian Golding