ChinookvsRakau

Chinook and Rakau are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Chinook

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–15%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2.7 mL

United States

Rakau

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–12%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

1.8–2.2 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Chinook

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering

When to pick Rakau

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

PineResin

Only in Chinook

GrapefruitSpicyDankCannabis

Only in Rakau

Stone fruitFigFruityApricot

Property

PropertyChinookRakau
Alpha acid11.5–15%9–12%
Beta acid3–4%5–6%
Co-humulone27–35%23–25%
Total oil1–2.7 mL1.8–2.2 mL
Myrcene20–30%55–57%
Humulene18–24%16–17%
Caryophyllene9–11%5–6%
Farnesene0–1%4–5%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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