CentennialvsLiberty

Centennial (dual purpose) and Liberty (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Centennial

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–12%

Beta acid

3.5–5.5%

Total oil

1–3 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 Centennial

  • 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
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusFloral

Only in Centennial

PineGrapefruitTangerine

Only in Liberty

NobleHerbalSpicyDelicateLemon

Property

PropertyCentennialLiberty
Alpha acid7–12%3–6.5%
Beta acid3.5–5.5%3–4%
Co-humulone23–30%22–30%
Total oil1–3 mL0.6–1.8 mL
Myrcene55–65%15–25%
Humulene10–20%35–45%
Caryophyllene5–7%10–15%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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