WaimeavsChinook

Waimea and Chinook are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Waimea

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14.5–19%

Beta acid

7–9%

Total oil

1.8–2.3 mL

New Zealand

Chinook

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–15%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Waimea

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

When to pick Chinook

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Pine

Only in Waimea

CitrusMandarinHerbalTangerine

Only in Chinook

ResinGrapefruitSpicyDankCannabis

Property

PropertyWaimeaChinook
Alpha acid14.5–19%11.5–15%
Beta acid7–9%3–4%
Co-humulone22–24%27–35%
Total oil1.8–2.3 mL1–2.7 mL
Myrcene59–61%20–30%
Humulene9–10%18–24%
Caryophyllene2–3%9–11%
Farnesene4–6%0–1%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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