HydravsRiwaka

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

Hydra

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10.5–13.7%

Beta acid

6.4–7.9%

Total oil

-

United States

Riwaka

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.5–6.5%

Beta acid

4–5%

Total oil

0.8–1.5 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Hydra

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Riwaka

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusTropical

Only in Hydra

TangerineMandarinZestResinLimeBerryPeachWatermelonRoseApricot

Only in Riwaka

Passion fruitGrapefruit

Property

PropertyHydraRiwaka
Alpha acid10.5–13.7%4.5–6.5%
Beta acid6.4–7.9%4–5%
Co-humulone27–28%29–38%
Total oil-0.8–1.5 mL
Myrcene54–55%67–70%
Humulene11–12%8–10%
Caryophyllene8–9%2–6%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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