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

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8.5–12.1%

Beta acid

4–8%

Total oil

1–2.5 mL

United States

First Gold

Dual purpose

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

PropertyBelmaFirst Gold
Alpha acid8.5–12.1%5.6–10%
Beta acid4–8%2.3–4.1%
Co-humulone-29–35%
Total oil1–2.5 mL0.7–1.5 mL
Myrcene65–68%24–28%
Humulene-20–24%
Caryophyllene-6–7%
Farnesene-2–4%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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