NuggetvsVital

Nugget and Vital 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

Vital

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–16%

Beta acid

6–11%

Total oil

1.1–2.5 mL

Czech Republic

Key differences

When to pick Nugget

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Vital

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Nugget

HerbalCitrusGingerPineappleGeraniumLycheeHerbalEarthyCoconut

Only in Vital

PlumLavenderSpicyLicorice

Property

PropertyNuggetVital
Alpha acid9.5–16%9–16%
Beta acid3–5.8%6–11%
Co-humulone22–30%21–26%
Total oil0.9–3.3 mL1.1–2.5 mL
Myrcene48–59%40–60%
Humulene12–22%2–5%
Caryophyllene7–10%5–8%
Farnesene0–1%1–3%
OriginUnited StatesCzech Republic
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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