LibertyvsChinook

Liberty (bittering) and Chinook (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Liberty

Bittering

Alpha acid

3–6.5%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

0.6–1.8 mL

United States

Chinook

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–15%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Liberty

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Chinook

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Liberty

NobleFloralHerbalDelicateCitrusLemon

Only in Chinook

PineResinGrapefruitDankCannabis

Property

PropertyLibertyChinook
Alpha acid3–6.5%11.5–15%
Beta acid3–4%3–4%
Co-humulone22–30%27–35%
Total oil0.6–1.8 mL1–2.7 mL
Myrcene15–25%20–30%
Humulene35–45%18–24%
Caryophyllene10–15%9–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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