HarlequinvsLiberty

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

Harlequin

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–12%

Beta acid

7–9%

Total oil

1–1.6 mL

UK

Liberty

Bittering

Alpha acid

3–6.5%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

0.6–1.8 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Harlequin

  • 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 Liberty

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Harlequin

Passion fruitPeachPineapple

Only in Liberty

NobleFloralHerbalSpicyDelicateCitrusLemon

Property

PropertyHarlequinLiberty
Alpha acid9–12%3–6.5%
Beta acid7–9%3–4%
Co-humulone27–31%22–30%
Total oil1–1.6 mL0.6–1.8 mL
Myrcene59–61%15–25%
Humulene4–6%35–45%
Caryophyllene-10–15%
Farnesene9–11%0–1%
OriginUKUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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