Nelson SauvinvsMosaic

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

Nelson Sauvin

Aroma

Alpha acid

10–13%

Beta acid

5–8%

Total oil

0.8–1.5 mL

New Zealand

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 Nelson Sauvin

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Nelson Sauvin

WhiteFruityGooseberryGrapesSauvignon

Only in Mosaic

BlueberryTropicalCitrusGrassyPineSpicyTangerinePapayaRoseEarthyBlossomBubblegumGrapefruit

Property

PropertyNelson SauvinMosaic
Alpha acid10–13%11.5–13.5%
Beta acid5–8%3.2–3.9%
Co-humulone20–25%24–26%
Total oil0.8–1.5 mL1–1.5 mL
Myrcene20–45%47–55%
Humulene25–37%10–16%
Caryophyllene6–11%3–8%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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