MosaicvsNorthern Brewer (GR)

Mosaic (dual purpose) and Northern Brewer (GR) (bittering) 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

Northern Brewer (GR)

Bittering

Alpha acid

6–10%

Beta acid

3–5%

Total oil

1–2.1 mL

Germany

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 Northern Brewer (GR)

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

GrassyPine

Only in Mosaic

BlueberryTropicalCitrusSpicyTangerinePapayaRoseEarthyBlossomBubblegumGrapefruit

Only in Northern Brewer (GR)

Mint

Property

PropertyMosaicNorthern Brewer (GR)
Alpha acid11.5–13.5%6–10%
Beta acid3.2–3.9%3–5%
Co-humulone24–26%27–33%
Total oil1–1.5 mL1–2.1 mL
Myrcene47–55%25–45%
Humulene10–16%35–50%
Caryophyllene3–8%10–20%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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