EroicavsWai-iti

Eroica (bittering) and Wai-iti (aroma) 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

Wai-iti

Aroma

Alpha acid

2.5–3.5%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

1.4–1.8 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Eroica

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Wai-iti

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Eroica

-

Only in Wai-iti

Stone fruitPeachApricotCitrusLimeMandarinSpicy

Property

PropertyEroicaWai-iti
Alpha acid7.3–14.9%2.5–3.5%
Beta acid3–5.3%4.5–5.5%
Co-humulone40%22–24%
Total oil0.8–1.3 mL1.4–1.8 mL
Myrcene55–65%2–4%
Humulene0–1%27–29%
Caryophyllene7–13%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%12–14%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeBitteringAroma

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