LibertyvsPahto

Liberty and Pahto 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

Pahto

Bittering

Alpha acid

17–20%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

1–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Liberty

  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Pahto

  • 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

Herbal

Only in Liberty

NobleFloralSpicyDelicateCitrusLemon

Only in Pahto

NeutralEarthyCleanSmooth

Property

PropertyLibertyPahto
Alpha acid3–6.5%17–20%
Beta acid3–4%4.5–6%
Co-humulone22–30%26–32%
Total oil0.6–1.8 mL1–2.5 mL
Myrcene15–25%58–72%
Humulene35–45%8–11%
Caryophyllene10–15%3–6%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringBittering

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