Nugget hops are an American hop variety known for their robust bittering properties and a relatively mild aroma profile.

Here are some key features of Nugget hops:

1. Flavor Profile: Nugget hops contribute a clean and bittering flavor to beer. The flavor is often described as herbal and slightly spicy, with some earthy and woody notes. While they are primarily used for bittering, the flavor can be quite neutral, allowing other hop varieties to shine in the aroma and flavor aspects of the beer.
2. Aroma: Nugget hops have a mild aroma compared to some other hop varieties. They can impart subtle herbal and spicy notes, but their primary role is in providing bitterness rather than contributing to the beer's aroma.
3. Usage: Nugget hops are mainly used for bittering additions in brewing. They are typically added early in the boil to maximize their contribution to the beer's bitterness. Due to their alpha acids content, they are effective for achieving a clean and neutral bitterness.
4. Alpha Acids: Nugget hops have a high alpha acids content, typically ranging from around 9% to 14% or even higher. This makes them well-suited for bittering additions and is one of the reasons why they are often chosen for their bittering properties.
5. Beer Styles: Nugget hops are commonly used in a variety of beer styles where a clean and assertive bitterness is desired. They can be found in a range of ales, including Pale Ales, India Pale Ales (IPAs), and Imperial IPAs. Nugget hops are also used in some stouts and porters where a balanced bitterness is desired.
6. Origin: Nugget hops were developed in the United States and were released in 1983. They are a cross between Brewer's Gold and a male hop plant with high alpha acids content.

Nugget hops are valued by brewers for their reliable bittering properties and versatility in a range of beer styles. While they may not have the complex aroma characteristics of some aroma hop varieties, their high alpha acids content makes them a go-to choice for achieving a strong and clean bitterness in brewing.