Bitter GoldvsCitra

Bitter Gold and Citra are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Bitter Gold

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

12–18.8%

Beta acid

4.5–8%

Total oil

0.8–3.9 mL

United States

Citra

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10–15%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Bitter Gold

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

When to pick Citra

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

GrapefruitFloral

Only in Bitter Gold

Stone fruitTropicalPearWatermelonGrassy

Only in Citra

CitrusPeachMelonLimeGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Property

PropertyBitter GoldCitra
Alpha acid12–18.8%10–15%
Beta acid4.5–8%3–4.5%
Co-humulone36–41%20–35%
Total oil0.8–3.9 mL1.5–3 mL
Myrcene45–68%60–70%
Humulene7–18%7–13%
Caryophyllene7–11%5–8%
Farnesene0–2%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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