ChelanvsLiberty

Chelan and Liberty are popular bittering hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Chelan

Bittering

Alpha acid

12–15%

Beta acid

8.5–10%

Total oil

1.5–1.9 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 Chelan

  • 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

When to pick Liberty

  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralCitrus

Only in Chelan

FruityMild

Only in Liberty

NobleHerbalSpicyDelicateLemon

Property

PropertyChelanLiberty
Alpha acid12–15%3–6.5%
Beta acid8.5–10%3–4%
Co-humulone33–35%22–30%
Total oil1.5–1.9 mL0.6–1.8 mL
Myrcene45–55%15–25%
Humulene12–15%35–45%
Caryophyllene9–12%10–15%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringBittering

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