ToyomidorivsOpal
Toyomidori (bittering) and Opal (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Toyomidori
Alpha acid
11–13%
Beta acid
5–6%
Total oil
0.8–1.2 mL
Japan
Opal
Alpha acid
5–14%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
0.8–1.3 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Toyomidori
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Opal
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Toyomidori
MildFruityTobaccoGreen
Only in Opal
Black currantCitrusSpicyFloralHerbalAnise
Property
| Property | Toyomidori | Opal |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 11–13% | 5–14% |
| Beta acid | 5–6% | 3.5–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 40% | 13–34% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.2 mL | 0.8–1.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 58–60% | 20–45% |
| Humulene | 9–12% | 30–50% |
| Caryophyllene | 4–5% | 8–15% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Japan | Germany |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |
Styrian Golding