RakauvsSamba

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

Rakau

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–12%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

1.8–2.2 mL

New Zealand

Samba

Aroma

Alpha acid

8–12%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Rakau

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Samba

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Stone fruit

Only in Rakau

FigFruityApricotPineResin

Only in Samba

TropicalPineappleMangoCandyOrange

Property

PropertyRakauSamba
Alpha acid9–12%8–12%
Beta acid5–6%4–6%
Co-humulone23–25%28–32%
Total oil1.8–2.2 mL1.5–2.5 mL
Myrcene55–57%-
Humulene16–17%-
Caryophyllene5–6%-
Farnesene4–5%-
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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