PolarisvsLiberty

Polaris (dual purpose) and Liberty (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Polaris

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

18–23%

Beta acid

4.5–6.5%

Total oil

4–5 mL

Germany

Liberty

Bittering

Alpha acid

3–6.5%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

0.6–1.8 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Polaris

  • 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
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Liberty

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Polaris

MintMentholPineapple

Only in Liberty

NobleFloralHerbalSpicyDelicateCitrusLemon

Property

PropertyPolarisLiberty
Alpha acid18–23%3–6.5%
Beta acid4.5–6.5%3–4%
Co-humulone22–29%22–30%
Total oil4–5 mL0.6–1.8 mL
Myrcene49–51%15–25%
Humulene20–35%35–45%
Caryophyllene8–13%10–15%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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