Idaho 7
Alpha acid
9.5–14.9%
Beta acid
3.5–5%
Total oil
1–2 mL
United States
Rakau
Alpha acid
9–12%
Beta acid
5–6%
Total oil
1.8–2.2 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick Idaho 7
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Rakau
- 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
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
ApricotResinPine
Only in Idaho 7
Black currantTropicalCitrusOrangeGrapefruitPapayaFloralBlack currantEarthy
Only in Rakau
Stone fruitFigFruity
Property
| Property | Idaho 7 | Rakau |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 9.5–14.9% | 9–12% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–5% | 5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 30–40% | 23–25% |
| Total oil | 1–2 mL | 1.8–2.2 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–55% | 55–57% |
| Humulene | 10–20% | 16–17% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–10% | 5–6% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 4–5% |
| Origin | United States | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |