MotuekavsTillicum

Motueka (dual purpose) and Tillicum (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

Tillicum

Bittering

Alpha acid

13.5–15.5%

Beta acid

9.5–11.5%

Total oil

-

United States

Key differences

When to pick Motueka

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Tillicum

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Motueka

MojitoLimeLemonTropicalFloral

Only in Tillicum

Stone fruit

Property

PropertyMotuekaTillicum
Alpha acid5–8.5%13.5–15.5%
Beta acid5–5.5%9.5–11.5%
Co-humulone25–35%35%
Total oil0.8–1 mL-
Myrcene47–48%39–41%
Humulene3–4%13–15%
Caryophyllene1–3%7–8%
Farnesene12–13%0–1%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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