HBC 586vsLiberty

HBC 586 (dual purpose) and Liberty (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

HBC 586

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

18–22%

Beta acid

11–14%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

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 HBC 586

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • 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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusHerbalSpicy

Only in HBC 586

MangoLycheeGuava

Only in Liberty

NobleFloralDelicateLemon

Property

PropertyHBC 586Liberty
Alpha acid18–22%3–6.5%
Beta acid11–14%3–4%
Co-humulone35–40%22–30%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL0.6–1.8 mL
Myrcene55–65%15–25%
Humulene8–12%35–45%
Caryophyllene8–10%10–15%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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