Bitter GoldvsLiberty
Bitter Gold (dual purpose) and Liberty (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Bitter Gold
Alpha acid
12–18.8%
Beta acid
4.5–8%
Total oil
0.8–3.9 mL
United States
Liberty
Alpha acid
3–6.5%
Beta acid
3–4%
Total oil
0.6–1.8 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Bitter Gold
- 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
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Liberty
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Bitter Gold
Stone fruitTropicalPearWatermelonGrassyGrapefruit
Only in Liberty
NobleHerbalSpicyDelicateCitrusLemon
Property
| Property | Bitter Gold | Liberty |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–18.8% | 3–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8% | 3–4% |
| Co-humulone | 36–41% | 22–30% |
| Total oil | 0.8–3.9 mL | 0.6–1.8 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–68% | 15–25% |
| Humulene | 7–18% | 35–45% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–11% | 10–15% |
| Farnesene | 0–2% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |