Nelson SauvinvsMotueka
Nelson Sauvin (aroma) and Motueka (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Nelson Sauvin
Alpha acid
10–13%
Beta acid
5–8%
Total oil
0.8–1.5 mL
New Zealand
Motueka
Alpha acid
5–8.5%
Beta acid
5–5.5%
Total oil
0.8–1 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick Nelson Sauvin
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Motueka
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Nelson Sauvin
WhiteFruityGooseberryGrapesSauvignon
Only in Motueka
CitrusMojitoLimeLemonTropicalFloral
Property
| Property | Nelson Sauvin | Motueka |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 10–13% | 5–8.5% |
| Beta acid | 5–8% | 5–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–25% | 25–35% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.5 mL | 0.8–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 20–45% | 47–48% |
| Humulene | 25–37% | 3–4% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–11% | 1–3% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 12–13% |
| Origin | New Zealand | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |
Enigma
Hallertau Blanc
Sterling