MotuekavsChelan

Motueka (dual purpose) and Chelan (bittering) 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

Chelan

Bittering

Alpha acid

12–15%

Beta acid

8.5–10%

Total oil

1.5–1.9 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Motueka

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Chelan

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusFloral

Only in Motueka

MojitoLimeLemonTropical

Only in Chelan

FruityMild

Property

PropertyMotuekaChelan
Alpha acid5–8.5%12–15%
Beta acid5–5.5%8.5–10%
Co-humulone25–35%33–35%
Total oil0.8–1 mL1.5–1.9 mL
Myrcene47–48%45–55%
Humulene3–4%12–15%
Caryophyllene1–3%9–12%
Farnesene12–13%0–1%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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