MotuekavsAmarillo

Motueka (dual purpose) and Amarillo (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Motueka

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–8.5%

Beta acid

5–5.5%

Total oil

0.8–1 mL

New Zealand

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Motueka

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Amarillo

  • 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
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusLemonTropicalFloral

Only in Motueka

MojitoLime

Only in Amarillo

SpicyOrangeMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Property

PropertyMotuekaAmarillo
Alpha acid5–8.5%7–11%
Beta acid5–5.5%5.5–8%
Co-humulone25–35%21–24%
Total oil0.8–1 mL1–2.3 mL
Myrcene47–48%40–70%
Humulene3–4%19–24%
Caryophyllene1–3%7–10%
Farnesene12–13%6–9%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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