McKenzie
Alpha acid
9–11%
Beta acid
8–9%
Total oil
2–3 mL
United States
Riwaka
Alpha acid
4.5–6.5%
Beta acid
4–5%
Total oil
0.8–1.5 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick McKenzie
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Riwaka
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Grapefruit
Only in McKenzie
LemonNectarineMelonPineThymeStone fruitDankFloral
Only in Riwaka
TropicalPassion fruitCitrus
Property
| Property | McKenzie | Riwaka |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 9–11% | 4.5–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 8–9% | 4–5% |
| Co-humulone | - | 29–38% |
| Total oil | 2–3 mL | 0.8–1.5 mL |
| Myrcene | - | 67–70% |
| Humulene | - | 8–10% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 2–6% |
| Farnesene | - | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |