OpalvsCTZ

Opal and CTZ 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

CTZ

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14.5–17%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

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 CTZ

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Black currantCitrus

Only in Opal

SpicyFloralHerbalAnise

Only in CTZ

LicoriceCurryCannabisDank

Property

PropertyOpalCTZ
Alpha acid5–14%14.5–17%
Beta acid3.5–5.5%4.5–5.5%
Co-humulone13–34%28–35%
Total oil0.8–1.3 mL2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene20–45%45–55%
Humulene30–50%9–14%
Caryophyllene8–15%6–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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