WakatuvsSorachi Ace

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

Wakatu

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6.5–8.5%

Beta acid

8–8.5%

Total oil

0.9–1.2 mL

New Zealand

Sorachi Ace

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–16%

Beta acid

6–8%

Total oil

1–3 mL

Japan

Key differences

When to pick Wakatu

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

When to pick Sorachi Ace

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Wakatu

FloralLimeTropicalZest

Only in Sorachi Ace

LemonDillWoodyTobaccoCitrusHerbal

Property

PropertyWakatuSorachi Ace
Alpha acid6.5–8.5%11–16%
Beta acid8–8.5%6–8%
Co-humulone28–30%23–28%
Total oil0.9–1.2 mL1–3 mL
Myrcene35–36%45–55%
Humulene16–17%20–26%
Caryophyllene8–9%7–11%
Farnesene6–7%2–5%
OriginNew ZealandJapan
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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