PhoenixvsNugget

Phoenix and Nugget are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Phoenix

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8–13.5%

Beta acid

3.3–5.5%

Total oil

1.2–3 mL

United Kingdom

Nugget

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9.5–16%

Beta acid

3–5.8%

Total oil

0.9–3.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Phoenix

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

When to pick Nugget

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Phoenix

MolassesChocolateSpicyFloralPine

Only in Nugget

HerbalCitrusGingerPineappleGeraniumLycheeHerbalEarthyCoconut

Property

PropertyPhoenixNugget
Alpha acid8–13.5%9.5–16%
Beta acid3.3–5.5%3–5.8%
Co-humulone24–33%22–30%
Total oil1.2–3 mL0.9–3.3 mL
Myrcene23–25%48–59%
Humulene29–31%12–22%
Caryophyllene10–12%7–10%
Farnesene1–2%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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