GlaciervsWai-iti

Glacier (dual purpose) and Wai-iti (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Glacier

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

3.3–9.7%

Beta acid

5.4–10%

Total oil

0.5–1.5 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 Glacier

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

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 Glacier

PlumBlackberryWoodyCedar

Only in Wai-iti

Stone fruitPeachApricotCitrusLimeMandarinSpicy

Property

PropertyGlacierWai-iti
Alpha acid3.3–9.7%2.5–3.5%
Beta acid5.4–10%4.5–5.5%
Co-humulone11–16%22–24%
Total oil0.5–1.5 mL1.4–1.8 mL
Myrcene35–45%2–4%
Humulene25–35%27–29%
Caryophyllene8–13%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%12–14%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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