MelbavsMosaic

Melba (aroma) and Mosaic (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Melba

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–10%

Beta acid

2.5–5%

Total oil

2–4 mL

Australia

Mosaic

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–13.5%

Beta acid

3.2–3.9%

Total oil

1–1.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Melba

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Mosaic

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

GrapefruitCitrusSpicy

Only in Melba

Passion fruit

Only in Mosaic

BlueberryTropicalGrassyPineTangerinePapayaRoseEarthyBlossomBubblegum

Property

PropertyMelbaMosaic
Alpha acid7–10%11.5–13.5%
Beta acid2.5–5%3.2–3.9%
Co-humulone25–35%24–26%
Total oil2–4 mL1–1.5 mL
Myrcene-47–55%
Humulene-10–16%
Caryophyllene-3–8%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginAustraliaUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

Related comparisons