Opal
Alpha acid
5–14%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
0.8–1.3 mL
Germany
Liberty
Alpha acid
3–6.5%
Beta acid
3–4%
Total oil
0.6–1.8 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Opal
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Liberty
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
CitrusSpicyFloralHerbal
Only in Opal
Black currantAnise
Only in Liberty
NobleDelicateLemon
Property
| Property | Opal | Liberty |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5–14% | 3–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–5.5% | 3–4% |
| Co-humulone | 13–34% | 22–30% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.3 mL | 0.6–1.8 mL |
| Myrcene | 20–45% | 15–25% |
| Humulene | 30–50% | 35–45% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–15% | 10–15% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |
Styrian Golding