Opal
Alpha acid
5–14%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
0.8–1.3 mL
Germany
Columbus
Alpha acid
14–18%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 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 Columbus
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Black currantCitrusSpicyFloral
Only in Opal
HerbalAnise
Only in Columbus
EarthyLicoriceCurryPungentDankCannabis
Property
| Property | Opal | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5–14% | 14–18% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–5.5% | 4.5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 13–34% | 28–35% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.3 mL | 2.5–4.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 20–45% | 45–55% |
| Humulene | 30–50% | 9–14% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–15% | 6–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |
Styrian Golding