EroicavsRakau

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

Eroica

Bittering

Alpha acid

7.3–14.9%

Beta acid

3–5.3%

Total oil

0.8–1.3 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 Eroica

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Rakau

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Eroica

-

Only in Rakau

Stone fruitFigFruityApricotPineResin

Property

PropertyEroicaRakau
Alpha acid7.3–14.9%9–12%
Beta acid3–5.3%5–6%
Co-humulone40%23–25%
Total oil0.8–1.3 mL1.8–2.2 mL
Myrcene55–65%55–57%
Humulene0–1%16–17%
Caryophyllene7–13%5–6%
Farnesene0–1%4–5%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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