Nelson SauvinvsTaiheke

Nelson Sauvin (aroma) and Taiheke (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

Taiheke

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–9%

Beta acid

5–5.5%

Total oil

1–1.5 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 Taiheke

  • 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 Taiheke

CitrusTropicalGrapefruitLemonLimeFloralSpicy

Property

PropertyNelson SauvinTaiheke
Alpha acid10–13%5–9%
Beta acid5–8%5–5.5%
Co-humulone20–25%33–40%
Total oil0.8–1.5 mL1–1.5 mL
Myrcene20–45%50–60%
Humulene25–37%10–20%
Caryophyllene6–11%5–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–5%
OriginNew ZealandNew Zealand
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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