LibertyvsSticklebract
Liberty (bittering) and Sticklebract (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
Sticklebract
Alpha acid
12–15%
Beta acid
6–8.5%
Total oil
0.75–1.8 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick Liberty
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Sticklebract
- 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
Citrus
Only in Liberty
NobleFloralHerbalSpicyDelicateLemon
Only in Sticklebract
Pine
Property
| Property | Liberty | Sticklebract |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 3–6.5% | 12–15% |
| Beta acid | 3–4% | 6–8.5% |
| Co-humulone | 22–30% | 35–45% |
| Total oil | 0.6–1.8 mL | 0.75–1.8 mL |
| Myrcene | 15–25% | 14–64% |
| Humulene | 35–45% | 7–26% |
| Caryophyllene | 10–15% | 3–13% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 4–7% |
| Origin | United States | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |
Hersbrucker