LibertyvsMarco Polo
Liberty (bittering) and Marco Polo (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Liberty
Alpha acid
3–6.5%
Beta acid
3–4%
Total oil
0.6–1.8 mL
United States
Marco Polo
Alpha acid
12–13%
Beta acid
4.5–5.5%
Total oil
-
China
Key differences
When to pick Liberty
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Marco Polo
- 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 Marco Polo
GooseberryOreganoElderflower
Property
| Property | Liberty | Marco Polo |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 3–6.5% | 12–13% |
| Beta acid | 3–4% | 4.5–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 22–30% | 30–35% |
| Total oil | 0.6–1.8 mL | - |
| Myrcene | 15–25% | 40–50% |
| Humulene | 35–45% | 15–25% |
| Caryophyllene | 10–15% | 8–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | China |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |