RakauvsSouthern Cross
Rakau and Southern Cross are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Rakau
Alpha acid
9–12%
Beta acid
5–6%
Total oil
1.8–2.2 mL
New Zealand
Southern Cross
Alpha acid
11–14%
Beta acid
5–7%
Total oil
1.2–2 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick Rakau
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
When to pick Southern Cross
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Pine
Only in Rakau
Stone fruitFigFruityApricotResin
Only in Southern Cross
LemonLimeSpicyCitrusTropicalZest
Property
| Property | Rakau | Southern Cross |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 9–12% | 11–14% |
| Beta acid | 5–6% | 5–7% |
| Co-humulone | 23–25% | 25–28% |
| Total oil | 1.8–2.2 mL | 1.2–2 mL |
| Myrcene | 55–57% | 31–55% |
| Humulene | 16–17% | 13–21% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–6% | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | 4–5% | 6–8% |
| Origin | New Zealand | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |
Amarillo
Sorachi Ace