Styrian CardinalvsLiberty

Styrian Cardinal (aroma) and Liberty (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Styrian Cardinal

Aroma

Alpha acid

8–15%

Beta acid

3.2–4.6%

Total oil

3–4 mL

Slovenia

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 Styrian Cardinal

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Liberty

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Styrian Cardinal

GooseberryPineappleOrangeLimeJasmineGuava

Only in Liberty

NobleFloralHerbalSpicyDelicateLemon

Property

PropertyStyrian CardinalLiberty
Alpha acid8–15%3–6.5%
Beta acid3.2–4.6%3–4%
Co-humulone31–37%22–30%
Total oil3–4 mL0.6–1.8 mL
Myrcene40–50%15–25%
Humulene15–22%35–45%
Caryophyllene8–11%10–15%
Farnesene5–7%0–1%
OriginSloveniaUnited States
PurposeAromaBittering

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