HeraldvsLiberty

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

Herald

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–13%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

1–1.9 mL

United Kingdom

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 Herald

  • 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

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Herald

OrangeGrapefruitClean

Only in Liberty

NobleFloralHerbalSpicyDelicateLemon

Property

PropertyHeraldLiberty
Alpha acid9–13%3–6.5%
Beta acid4.5–5.5%3–4%
Co-humulone35–37%22–30%
Total oil1–1.9 mL0.6–1.8 mL
Myrcene39–41%15–25%
Humulene14–16%35–45%
Caryophyllene6–8%10–15%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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