LotusvsRakau

Lotus (aroma) and Rakau (dual purpose) 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

Rakau

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–12%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

1.8–2.2 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Lotus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Rakau

  • 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 Lotus

OrangeVanillaBerryTropicalCream

Only in Rakau

Stone fruitFigFruityApricotPineResin

Property

PropertyLotusRakau
Alpha acid13–17%9–12%
Beta acid5–6%5–6%
Co-humulone33–39%23–25%
Total oil1.5–2.5 mL1.8–2.2 mL
Myrcene25–35%55–57%
Humulene35–40%16–17%
Caryophyllene-5–6%
Farnesene0–1%4–5%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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