WaimeavsMotueka

Waimea and Motueka 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

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 Waimea

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

When to pick Motueka

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Waimea

PineMandarinHerbalTangerine

Only in Motueka

MojitoLimeLemonTropicalFloral

Property

PropertyWaimeaMotueka
Alpha acid14.5–19%5–8.5%
Beta acid7–9%5–5.5%
Co-humulone22–24%25–35%
Total oil1.8–2.3 mL0.8–1 mL
Myrcene59–61%47–48%
Humulene9–10%3–4%
Caryophyllene2–3%1–3%
Farnesene4–6%12–13%
OriginNew ZealandNew Zealand
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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