Northern Brewer (US)vsEnigma
Northern Brewer (US) (bittering) and Enigma (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Northern Brewer (US)
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
3–5.5%
Total oil
1–2 mL
United States
Enigma
Alpha acid
13.5–19.4%
Beta acid
4.5–7.1%
Total oil
1.8–3 mL
Australia
Key differences
When to pick Northern Brewer (US)
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Enigma
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Northern Brewer (US)
PineWoodyMintBlack currant
Only in Enigma
TropicalBerryStone fruitRaspberryRedcurrantWhite
Property
| Property | Northern Brewer (US) | Enigma |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 7–10% | 13.5–19.4% |
| Beta acid | 3–5.5% | 4.5–7.1% |
| Co-humulone | 27–34% | 37–43% |
| Total oil | 1–2 mL | 1.8–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 35–45% | 23–30% |
| Humulene | 27–31% | 12–19% |
| Caryophyllene | 11–15% | 6–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 9–12% |
| Origin | United States | Australia |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |
Hallertau Blanc
Nelson Sauvin