HydravsRakau

Hydra and Rakau are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Hydra

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10.5–13.7%

Beta acid

6.4–7.9%

Total oil

-

United States

Rakau

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–12%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

1.8–2.2 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Hydra

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Rakau

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

ResinApricot

Only in Hydra

CitrusTangerineMandarinZestLimeBerryPeachWatermelonRoseTropical

Only in Rakau

Stone fruitFigFruityPine

Property

PropertyHydraRakau
Alpha acid10.5–13.7%9–12%
Beta acid6.4–7.9%5–6%
Co-humulone27–28%23–25%
Total oil-1.8–2.2 mL
Myrcene54–55%55–57%
Humulene11–12%16–17%
Caryophyllene8–9%5–6%
Farnesene0–1%4–5%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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