LotusvsLiberty

Lotus (aroma) and Liberty (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Lotus

Aroma

Alpha acid

13–17%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

United States

Liberty

Bittering

Alpha acid

3–6.5%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

0.6–1.8 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Lotus

  • 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-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Liberty

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Lotus

OrangeVanillaBerryTropicalCream

Only in Liberty

NobleFloralHerbalSpicyDelicateCitrusLemon

Property

PropertyLotusLiberty
Alpha acid13–17%3–6.5%
Beta acid5–6%3–4%
Co-humulone33–39%22–30%
Total oil1.5–2.5 mL0.6–1.8 mL
Myrcene25–35%15–25%
Humulene35–40%35–45%
Caryophyllene-10–15%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaBittering

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