OpalvsCentennial

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

Opal

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–14%

Beta acid

3.5–5.5%

Total oil

0.8–1.3 mL

Germany

Centennial

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–12%

Beta acid

3.5–5.5%

Total oil

1–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Opal

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

When to pick Centennial

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusFloral

Only in Opal

Black currantSpicyHerbalAnise

Only in Centennial

PineGrapefruitTangerine

Property

PropertyOpalCentennial
Alpha acid5–14%7–12%
Beta acid3.5–5.5%3.5–5.5%
Co-humulone13–34%23–30%
Total oil0.8–1.3 mL1–3 mL
Myrcene20–45%55–65%
Humulene30–50%10–20%
Caryophyllene8–15%5–7%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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