Origin: New Zealand. A dual-purpose variety from HortResearch released in 2007.
Usage: Dual purpose. Rakau is a total package of high alpha acids and oil content (particularly myrcene) with low cohumulone, making it ideal for the “hoppy not bitter” school of IPA. Also well suited to hop-forward lagers, Belgian ales, or highly aromatic American wheats.
Aroma & Flavor Characteristics: Moderate to strong. Lovely and pungent whiffs of ripe fruit (particularly peach) backed with bright notes of grapefruit juice, stone fruits, and a suggestion of tropical flowers and balsam, which can be brought closer to the front with dry hopping.
Hop Size 1 oz
Alpha Acid Range % 9.0 – 11.0
Beta Acid Range % 5.0 – 6.0
Co-Humulone as % of Alpha 23 – 25
Total Oil mL/100 g 1.8 – 2.2
