BelmavsFirst Gold
Belma and First Gold are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Belma
Alpha acid
8.5–12.1%
Beta acid
4–8%
Total oil
1–2.5 mL
United States
First Gold
Alpha acid
5.6–10%
Beta acid
2.3–4.1%
Total oil
0.7–1.5 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Belma
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
When to pick First Gold
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Orange
Only in Belma
MelonStrawberryPineappleGrapefruitBerryCitrusTropical
Only in First Gold
TangerineApricotMagnoliaRedberryHerbalHerbalSpicyFloral
Property
| Property | Belma | First Gold |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 8.5–12.1% | 5.6–10% |
| Beta acid | 4–8% | 2.3–4.1% |
| Co-humulone | - | 29–35% |
| Total oil | 1–2.5 mL | 0.7–1.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 65–68% | 24–28% |
| Humulene | - | 20–24% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 6–7% |
| Farnesene | - | 2–4% |
| Origin | United States | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |