RakauvsSimcoe

Rakau and Simcoe are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Rakau

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–12%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

1.8–2.2 mL

New Zealand

Simcoe

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–15%

Beta acid

3–5%

Total oil

0.8–3.2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Rakau

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

When to pick Simcoe

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FruityApricotPine

Only in Rakau

Stone fruitFigResin

Only in Simcoe

EarthyGrapefruitPassion fruitBerryBubblegumCitrus

Property

PropertyRakauSimcoe
Alpha acid9–12%11–15%
Beta acid5–6%3–5%
Co-humulone23–25%15–21%
Total oil1.8–2.2 mL0.8–3.2 mL
Myrcene55–57%40–50%
Humulene16–17%15–20%
Caryophyllene5–6%8–14%
Farnesene4–5%0–1%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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