LibertyvsGlacier

Liberty (bittering) and Glacier (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

Glacier

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

3.3–9.7%

Beta acid

5.4–10%

Total oil

0.5–1.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Liberty

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Glacier

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • 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

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Liberty

NobleFloralHerbalSpicyDelicateCitrusLemon

Only in Glacier

PlumBlackberryWoodyCedar

Property

PropertyLibertyGlacier
Alpha acid3–6.5%3.3–9.7%
Beta acid3–4%5.4–10%
Co-humulone22–30%11–16%
Total oil0.6–1.8 mL0.5–1.5 mL
Myrcene15–25%35–45%
Humulene35–45%25–35%
Caryophyllene10–15%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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