RiwakavsSamba

Riwaka and Samba are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Riwaka

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.5–6.5%

Beta acid

4–5%

Total oil

0.8–1.5 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 Riwaka

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

When to pick Samba

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Tropical

Only in Riwaka

Passion fruitGrapefruitCitrus

Only in Samba

PineappleMangoStone fruitCandyOrange

Property

PropertyRiwakaSamba
Alpha acid4.5–6.5%8–12%
Beta acid4–5%4–6%
Co-humulone29–38%28–32%
Total oil0.8–1.5 mL1.5–2.5 mL
Myrcene67–70%-
Humulene8–10%-
Caryophyllene2–6%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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