DeltavsTaiheke

Delta (aroma) and Taiheke (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Delta

Aroma

Alpha acid

5.5–7%

Beta acid

5.5–7%

Total oil

0.5–1.1 mL

United States

Taiheke

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–9%

Beta acid

5–5.5%

Total oil

1–1.5 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Delta

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Taiheke

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusSpicy

Only in Delta

Melon

Only in Taiheke

TropicalGrapefruitLemonLimeFloral

Property

PropertyDeltaTaiheke
Alpha acid5.5–7%5–9%
Beta acid5.5–7%5–5.5%
Co-humulone22–24%33–40%
Total oil0.5–1.1 mL1–1.5 mL
Myrcene25–40%50–60%
Humulene25–35%10–20%
Caryophyllene9–15%5–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–5%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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