Nelson SauvinvsPacific Sunrise

Nelson Sauvin (aroma) and Pacific Sunrise (bittering) 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

Pacific Sunrise

Bittering

Alpha acid

12.5–14.5%

Beta acid

5–7%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Nelson Sauvin

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Pacific Sunrise

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Nelson Sauvin

WhiteFruityGooseberryGrapesSauvignon

Only in Pacific Sunrise

WoodyPineLemonOrangeMangoMelonFloral

Property

PropertyNelson SauvinPacific Sunrise
Alpha acid10–13%12.5–14.5%
Beta acid5–8%5–7%
Co-humulone20–25%27–30%
Total oil0.8–1.5 mL1.5–2.5 mL
Myrcene20–45%45–55%
Humulene25–37%20–24%
Caryophyllene6–11%6–8%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginNew ZealandNew Zealand
PurposeAromaBittering

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