LibertyvsHerkules

Liberty and Herkules 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

Herkules

Bittering

Alpha acid

12–17%

Beta acid

4–5.5%

Total oil

1.4–2.4 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Liberty

  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Herkules

  • 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

Citrus

Only in Liberty

NobleFloralHerbalSpicyDelicateLemon

Only in Herkules

Melon

Property

PropertyLibertyHerkules
Alpha acid3–6.5%12–17%
Beta acid3–4%4–5.5%
Co-humulone22–30%32–38%
Total oil0.6–1.8 mL1.4–2.4 mL
Myrcene15–25%30–50%
Humulene35–45%30–45%
Caryophyllene10–15%7–12%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeBitteringBittering

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