NuggetvsPolaris

Nugget and Polaris are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Nugget

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9.5–16%

Beta acid

3–5.8%

Total oil

0.9–3.3 mL

United States

Polaris

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

18–23%

Beta acid

4.5–6.5%

Total oil

4–5 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Nugget

  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Polaris

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Pineapple

Only in Nugget

HerbalCitrusGingerGeraniumLycheeHerbalEarthyCoconut

Only in Polaris

MintMenthol

Property

PropertyNuggetPolaris
Alpha acid9.5–16%18–23%
Beta acid3–5.8%4.5–6.5%
Co-humulone22–30%22–29%
Total oil0.9–3.3 mL4–5 mL
Myrcene48–59%49–51%
Humulene12–22%20–35%
Caryophyllene7–10%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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