Northern Brewer (GR)vsMosaic

Northern Brewer (GR) (bittering) and Mosaic (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Northern Brewer (GR)

Bittering

Alpha acid

6–10%

Beta acid

3–5%

Total oil

1–2.1 mL

Germany

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 Northern Brewer (GR)

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

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

Shared aromas

GrassyPine

Only in Northern Brewer (GR)

Mint

Only in Mosaic

BlueberryTropicalCitrusSpicyTangerinePapayaRoseEarthyBlossomBubblegumGrapefruit

Property

PropertyNorthern Brewer (GR)Mosaic
Alpha acid6–10%11.5–13.5%
Beta acid3–5%3.2–3.9%
Co-humulone27–33%24–26%
Total oil1–2.1 mL1–1.5 mL
Myrcene25–45%47–55%
Humulene35–50%10–16%
Caryophyllene10–20%3–8%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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