MotuekavsZeus

Motueka (dual purpose) and Zeus (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

Zeus

Bittering

Alpha acid

13–17.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

2.4–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Motueka

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

When to pick Zeus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Motueka

CitrusMojitoLimeLemonTropicalFloral

Only in Zeus

Black currantLicoriceCurryPungent

Property

PropertyMotuekaZeus
Alpha acid5–8.5%13–17.5%
Beta acid5–5.5%4–6.5%
Co-humulone25–35%28–40%
Total oil0.8–1 mL2.4–4.5 mL
Myrcene47–48%45–60%
Humulene3–4%9–18%
Caryophyllene1–3%6–11%
Farnesene12–13%0–1%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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