Opal
Alpha acid
5–14%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
0.8–1.3 mL
Germany
Admiral
Alpha acid
13–16.2%
Beta acid
4.8–6.1%
Total oil
1–1.7 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Opal
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Admiral
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
CitrusHerbal
Only in Opal
Black currantSpicyFloralAnise
Only in Admiral
OrangeTeaFreshPineResin
Property
| Property | Opal | Admiral |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5–14% | 13–16.2% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–5.5% | 4.8–6.1% |
| Co-humulone | 13–34% | 37–45% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.3 mL | 1–1.7 mL |
| Myrcene | 20–45% | 39–48% |
| Humulene | 30–50% | 23–26% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–15% | 6–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–2% |
| Origin | Germany | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |
Northdown
Styrian Golding