Nugget
Alpha acid
9.5–16%
Beta acid
3–5.8%
Total oil
0.9–3.3 mL
United States
Opal
Alpha acid
5–14%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
0.8–1.3 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Nugget
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Opal
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
HerbalCitrusHerbal
Only in Nugget
GingerPineappleGeraniumLycheeEarthyCoconut
Only in Opal
Black currantSpicyFloralAnise
Property
| Property | Nugget | Opal |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 9.5–16% | 5–14% |
| Beta acid | 3–5.8% | 3.5–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 22–30% | 13–34% |
| Total oil | 0.9–3.3 mL | 0.8–1.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 48–59% | 20–45% |
| Humulene | 12–22% | 30–50% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–10% | 8–15% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |
Styrian Golding