Rakau Hop Profile
Origin:
- New Zealand
- Bred by New Zealand’s HortResearch, released in the 1980s, sometimes referred to as “AlphaAroma”
Type:
- Dual-purpose (suitable for both bittering and aroma/flavor, but prized for its aroma)
Typical Alpha Acids:
Beta Acids:
Aroma & Flavor Notes:
-
Stone Fruit: Big notes of apricot, peach, and plum
-
Tropical Fruit: Hints of passionfruit and mango
-
Citrus: Mandarin orange, grapefruit
-
Pine: Soft resinous undertones (more subtle than classic US piney hops)
-
Floral: Pleasant blossom notes
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Earthy: Clean, classic “old world” undertones in some harvests
-
Other: Some brewers mention ripe pear and a touch of candy-like sweetness
Brewing Characteristics:
- Known for producing a big, bold, fresh orchard fruit aroma—often described as “the whole orchard in a glass”
- Balances fruit-forward intensity with a pleasing earthy/floral backbone
- Performs well as a single hop or in combination with other Southern Hemisphere varieties
Best Beer Styles:
- IPA, Hazy IPA, Pale Ale
- New Zealand Pilsner
- Golden Ale, Blonde Ale
- Wheat and Saison
- Fruit-forward Lagers
Substitutes:
- Motueka (for lime/citrus and fruit),
- Nelson Sauvin (fruitier and more white wine-esque),
- Riwaka (citrus/tropical but more intense)
Fun Fact:
Rakau’s flavor has been described as “a summer fruit basket,” and it’s one of the best-known Kiwi hops for bold stone and tropical fruit character.
