OpalvsHersbrucker
Opal (dual purpose) and Hersbrucker (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Opal
Alpha acid
5–14%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
0.8–1.3 mL
Germany
Hersbrucker
Alpha acid
1.5–5%
Beta acid
2.5–6%
Total oil
0.5–1.3 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Opal
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Hersbrucker
- 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 Hersbrucker
NobleHayOrangeTobacco
Property
| Property | Opal | Hersbrucker |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5–14% | 1.5–5% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–5.5% | 2.5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 13–34% | 17–25% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.3 mL | 0.5–1.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 20–45% | 15–30% |
| Humulene | 30–50% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–15% | 8–13% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | Germany |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Liberty
Styrian Golding