NUGGET, Pellets T90
Nugget hops are a brewer’s workhorse, known for their bold, well-rounded character that delivers both robust bitterness and subtle aromatic qualities. This hop is a versatile ingredient, loved by brewers for its ability to shine in a wide range of beer styles.
- Flavour Profile: Herbal and woody with gentle floral and resinous undertones.
- Beer Styles: Nugget is commonly found in IPAs, Stouts, and Porters but is versatile enough for use in Pale Ales and Barleywines.
- Alpha Acids: 11.5 - 14.0%
- How to Use Nugget: Primarily used as a bittering hop, Nugget also brings depth when used for aroma or late additions, enhancing its versatility.
Description
What is Nugget?
Nugget hops are a dual-purpose variety, cultivated to deliver excellent bittering qualities while retaining a balance of aroma. First bred in the United States, Nugget is the result of careful hybridisation designed to provide a clean yet impactful bitterness that doesn’t overshadow the brew’s profile. It’s a staple choice for breweries looking for consistency and reliability in their hop bill.
How to Use Nugget
Nugget shines as a bittering hop, thanks to its high alpha acid content. It lays down a smooth, balanced bitterness that forms a strong backbone in beer recipes. As an aroma hop, it adds an earthy and slightly spicy bouquet, making it a flexible addition across brewing stages.
- Bitter Hop: Due to its high alpha acid levels, Nugget excels in delivering a firm bitterness that is clean and lingering, perfect for styles requiring a robust hop presence.
- Aroma Hop: When used in aroma or late additions, Nugget offers a nuanced blend of woody and herbal notes, complemented by subtle floral qualities.
- Dry Hop: Though less common, Nugget can be a surprising dry hop choice, adding depth to aroma profiles with a resinous and slightly fruity edge.
Flavour Profile
Nugget offers a well-rounded flavour profile that balances herbal, earthy, and slightly woody characteristics with hints of spice and resin. Its versatility allows it to complement a wide range of malt bases and hop combinations.
Combining with Other Hops
Nugget pairs well with hops that share or enhance its herbal and earthy qualities, such as Cascade or Chinook, for a more layered hop experience. It can also balance fruit-forward hops, creating a well-rounded beer profile.
Benefits of Nugget
Nugget’s high yield, resilience in growth, and versatile usage make it a favourite among commercial and home brewers. Its clean bitterness and balanced aroma allow it to fit seamlessly into both traditional and experimental brews.
Substitution:
- Substituting Nugget: If Nugget isn’t available, hops like Columbus or Magnum can replicate its high alpha acid content and similar earthy notes.
- Nugget as a Substitute: Nugget can substitute hops like Northern Brewer or Target, offering a comparable balance of bittering power and aromatic complexity.
History
Developed in the 1970s at Oregon State University, Nugget was bred as a high-yielding, disease-resistant variety. Its origins lie in Brewer’s Gold and other robust varieties, which give it its distinctive bitterness and aroma.
Key Features
Origin: USA
FLAVOUR PROFILE:
- Herbal
- Woody
- Resinous
- Spicy
HOP STATISTICS
ACID COMPONENTS
Alpha Acids 11.5 - 14.0% w/w
Beta Acids 3 – 5% w/w
Cohumulone 22 - 30% of alpha acids
OIL COMPONENTS
Total Oil 0.9 – 1.3 mls/100 grams
Caryophyllene 7 - 10% of whole oil
Farnesene <1% of whole oil
Humulene 16 - 19% of whole oil
Myrcene 27 - 42% of total oil