MelbavsNugget

Melba (aroma) and Nugget (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

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 Melba

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

When to pick Nugget

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Melba

Passion fruitGrapefruitSpicy

Only in Nugget

HerbalGingerPineappleGeraniumLycheeHerbalEarthyCoconut

Property

PropertyMelbaNugget
Alpha acid7–10%9.5–16%
Beta acid2.5–5%3–5.8%
Co-humulone25–35%22–30%
Total oil2–4 mL0.9–3.3 mL
Myrcene-48–59%
Humulene-12–22%
Caryophyllene-7–10%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginAustraliaUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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