LibertyvsChelan

Liberty and Chelan are popular bittering hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Liberty

Bittering

Alpha acid

3–6.5%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

0.6–1.8 mL

United States

Chelan

Bittering

Alpha acid

12–15%

Beta acid

8.5–10%

Total oil

1.5–1.9 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Liberty

  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Chelan

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralCitrus

Only in Liberty

NobleHerbalSpicyDelicateLemon

Only in Chelan

FruityMild

Property

PropertyLibertyChelan
Alpha acid3–6.5%12–15%
Beta acid3–4%8.5–10%
Co-humulone22–30%33–35%
Total oil0.6–1.8 mL1.5–1.9 mL
Myrcene15–25%45–55%
Humulene35–45%12–15%
Caryophyllene10–15%9–12%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringBittering

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