Opal
Alpha acid
5–14%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
0.8–1.3 mL
Germany
Ahtanum
Alpha acid
3.5–6.5%
Beta acid
4–6.5%
Total oil
0.5–1.7 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Opal
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Ahtanum
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
CitrusFloral
Only in Opal
Black currantSpicyHerbalAnise
Only in Ahtanum
GrapefruitGeraniumPineEarthyCedarLemon
Property
| Property | Opal | Ahtanum |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5–14% | 3.5–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–5.5% | 4–6.5% |
| Co-humulone | 13–34% | 30–35% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.3 mL | 0.5–1.7 mL |
| Myrcene | 20–45% | 45–55% |
| Humulene | 30–50% | 15–22% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–15% | 9–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Styrian Golding