OpalvsStrisselspalt
Opal (dual purpose) and Strisselspalt (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
Strisselspalt
Alpha acid
1–4%
Beta acid
3–6%
Total oil
0.6–0.8 mL
France
Key differences
When to pick Opal
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Strisselspalt
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
CitrusSpicyFloralHerbal
Only in Opal
Black currantAnise
Only in Strisselspalt
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Property
| Property | Opal | Strisselspalt |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5–14% | 1–4% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–5.5% | 3–6% |
| Co-humulone | 13–34% | 20–27% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.3 mL | 0.6–0.8 mL |
| Myrcene | 20–45% | 35–52% |
| Humulene | 30–50% | 13–21% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–15% | 8–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | France |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Crystal