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.

Botanical Classification:
Family: Cannabaceae
Genus: Humulus
Species: Lupulus

Maturity: Mid-season

Yield: Medium to Good