Opal
Alpha acid
5–14%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
0.8–1.3 mL
Germany
Fuggle
Alpha acid
2.4–6.1%
Beta acid
2.1–3.5%
Total oil
0.44–1 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Opal
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Fuggle
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Opal
Black currantCitrusSpicyFloralHerbalAnise
Only in Fuggle
WoodyGrassyMintMild
Property
| Property | Opal | Fuggle |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5–14% | 2.4–6.1% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–5.5% | 2.1–3.5% |
| Co-humulone | 13–34% | 25–32% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.3 mL | 0.44–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 20–45% | 15–25% |
| Humulene | 30–50% | 30–40% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–15% | 11–15% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 5–8% |
| Origin | Germany | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Styrian Golding
Willamette