Wakatu™ is a versatile dual-purpose hop developed by New Zealand’s Plant & Food Research in 1988. Originally released as Hallertau Aroma, it was renamed in 2011. This triploid variety combines two-thirds Hallertauer Mittelfrüh with a New Zealand-derived male, resulting in a hop that balances noble characteristics with unique regional notes.

Harvested between late February and early April, Wakatu™ offers moderate alpha acids ranging from 6.5% to 8.5%, making it suitable for both bittering and aroma applications. Its aroma profile is marked by floral and citrus notes, particularly lime zest, complemented by subtle tropical fruit and woody undertones. These characteristics make it an excellent choice for a variety of beer styles, including lagers, pilsners, and pale ales.

Wakatu™ is known for its clean, balanced bitterness and aromatic stability, even in dry-hopped applications. Its noble heritage combined with New Zealand terroir offers brewers a unique option for crafting beers with a distinctive yet approachable hop character.