LibertyvsMotueka

Liberty (bittering) and Motueka (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

Motueka

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–8.5%

Beta acid

5–5.5%

Total oil

0.8–1 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Liberty

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Motueka

  • 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

Shared aromas

FloralCitrusLemon

Only in Liberty

NobleHerbalSpicyDelicate

Only in Motueka

MojitoLimeTropical

Property

PropertyLibertyMotueka
Alpha acid3–6.5%5–8.5%
Beta acid3–4%5–5.5%
Co-humulone22–30%25–35%
Total oil0.6–1.8 mL0.8–1 mL
Myrcene15–25%47–48%
Humulene35–45%3–4%
Caryophyllene10–15%1–3%
Farnesene0–1%12–13%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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