TillicumvsMotueka

Tillicum (bittering) and Motueka (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Tillicum

Bittering

Alpha acid

13.5–15.5%

Beta acid

9.5–11.5%

Total oil

-

United States

Motueka

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–8.5%

Beta acid

5–5.5%

Total oil

0.8–1 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Tillicum

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Motueka

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Tillicum

Stone fruit

Only in Motueka

MojitoLimeLemonTropicalFloral

Property

PropertyTillicumMotueka
Alpha acid13.5–15.5%5–8.5%
Beta acid9.5–11.5%5–5.5%
Co-humulone35%25–35%
Total oil-0.8–1 mL
Myrcene39–41%47–48%
Humulene13–15%3–4%
Caryophyllene7–8%1–3%
Farnesene0–1%12–13%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

Related comparisons