WakatuvsLiberty

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

Wakatu

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6.5–8.5%

Beta acid

8–8.5%

Total oil

0.9–1.2 mL

New Zealand

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 Wakatu

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

When to pick Liberty

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Wakatu

LimeTropicalZest

Only in Liberty

NobleHerbalSpicyDelicateCitrusLemon

Property

PropertyWakatuLiberty
Alpha acid6.5–8.5%3–6.5%
Beta acid8–8.5%3–4%
Co-humulone28–30%22–30%
Total oil0.9–1.2 mL0.6–1.8 mL
Myrcene35–36%15–25%
Humulene16–17%35–45%
Caryophyllene8–9%10–15%
Farnesene6–7%0–1%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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