HersbruckervsMotueka

Hersbrucker (aroma) and Motueka (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Hersbrucker

Aroma

Alpha acid

1.5–5%

Beta acid

2.5–6%

Total oil

0.5–1.3 mL

Germany

Motueka

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–8.5%

Beta acid

5–5.5%

Total oil

0.8–1 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Hersbrucker

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Motueka

  • 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
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Hersbrucker

NobleHayOrangeTobacco

Only in Motueka

CitrusMojitoLimeLemonTropicalFloral

Property

PropertyHersbruckerMotueka
Alpha acid1.5–5%5–8.5%
Beta acid2.5–6%5–5.5%
Co-humulone17–25%25–35%
Total oil0.5–1.3 mL0.8–1 mL
Myrcene15–30%47–48%
Humulene20–30%3–4%
Caryophyllene8–13%1–3%
Farnesene0–1%12–13%
OriginGermanyNew Zealand
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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