Bred from Brewer’s Gold and a high alpha male, this American Hop was released in 1982 and has become increasingly popular. Though Nugget was first believed to be only a bittering hop, it is now generally accepted as a dual purpose brewing ingredient. This is due to Nugget’s very pleasant aroma of spice, herbs and soft notes of peach and pear that come through due to high oil levels in the hop.

An alpha acid range from about 12% to 14.5% allows for a strong bittering quality that shines in brews like IPAs, barley wines, and ESBs. Nugget hops are generally readily available in both pellet and whole form, but you could also use Magnum or Galena as a substitute. If you’re looking for a taste of Nugget hops, pick up Mayflower Brewing Co.’s signature IPA.