MosaicvsNelson Sauvin

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

Mosaic

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–13.5%

Beta acid

3.2–3.9%

Total oil

1–1.5 mL

United States

Nelson Sauvin

Aroma

Alpha acid

10–13%

Beta acid

5–8%

Total oil

0.8–1.5 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Mosaic

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

When to pick Nelson Sauvin

  • 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 Mosaic

BlueberryTropicalCitrusGrassyPineSpicyTangerinePapayaRoseEarthyBlossomBubblegumGrapefruit

Only in Nelson Sauvin

WhiteFruityGooseberryGrapesSauvignon

Property

PropertyMosaicNelson Sauvin
Alpha acid11.5–13.5%10–13%
Beta acid3.2–3.9%5–8%
Co-humulone24–26%20–25%
Total oil1–1.5 mL0.8–1.5 mL
Myrcene47–55%20–45%
Humulene10–16%25–37%
Caryophyllene3–8%6–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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