MistralvsEnigma

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

Mistral

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6.5–8.5%

Beta acid

3.1–3.8%

Total oil

1–1.5 mL

France

Enigma

Aroma

Alpha acid

13.5–19.4%

Beta acid

4.5–7.1%

Total oil

1.8–3 mL

Australia

Key differences

When to pick Mistral

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

When to pick Enigma

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Mistral

CitrusFloralMelonGrapesWinePearPassion fruitKumquatMango

Only in Enigma

TropicalBerryStone fruitRaspberryRedcurrantWhite

Property

PropertyMistralEnigma
Alpha acid6.5–8.5%13.5–19.4%
Beta acid3.1–3.8%4.5–7.1%
Co-humulone29–39%37–43%
Total oil1–1.5 mL1.8–3 mL
Myrcene59–65%23–30%
Humulene9–13%12–19%
Caryophyllene3–4%6–8%
Farnesene2–4%9–12%
OriginFranceAustralia
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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