TaihekevsRiwaka

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

Taiheke

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–9%

Beta acid

5–5.5%

Total oil

1–1.5 mL

New Zealand

Riwaka

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.5–6.5%

Beta acid

4–5%

Total oil

0.8–1.5 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Taiheke

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Riwaka

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusTropicalGrapefruit

Only in Taiheke

LemonLimeFloralSpicy

Only in Riwaka

Passion fruit

Property

PropertyTaihekeRiwaka
Alpha acid5–9%4.5–6.5%
Beta acid5–5.5%4–5%
Co-humulone33–40%29–38%
Total oil1–1.5 mL0.8–1.5 mL
Myrcene50–60%67–70%
Humulene10–20%8–10%
Caryophyllene5–10%2–6%
Farnesene0–5%0–1%
OriginNew ZealandNew Zealand
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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