AmarillovsLiberty

Amarillo (aroma) and Liberty (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Liberty

Bittering

Alpha acid

3–6.5%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

0.6–1.8 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Amarillo

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Liberty

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralSpicyCitrusLemon

Only in Amarillo

TropicalOrangeMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Only in Liberty

NobleHerbalDelicate

Property

PropertyAmarilloLiberty
Alpha acid7–11%3–6.5%
Beta acid5.5–8%3–4%
Co-humulone21–24%22–30%
Total oil1–2.3 mL0.6–1.8 mL
Myrcene40–70%15–25%
Humulene19–24%35–45%
Caryophyllene7–10%10–15%
Farnesene6–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaBittering

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