CitravsBarbe Rouge

Citra (dual purpose) and Barbe Rouge (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Citra

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10–15%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

Barbe Rouge

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.8–10%

Beta acid

3.3–4.6%

Total oil

1.1–3 mL

France

Key differences

When to pick Citra

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Barbe Rouge

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusLimeFloral

Only in Citra

GrapefruitPeachMelonGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Only in Barbe Rouge

KumquatOrangeRedcurrantStrawberryRaspberryBerryHerbal

Property

PropertyCitraBarbe Rouge
Alpha acid10–15%3.8–10%
Beta acid3–4.5%3.3–4.6%
Co-humulone20–35%24–28%
Total oil1.5–3 mL1.1–3 mL
Myrcene60–70%35–60%
Humulene7–13%15–25%
Caryophyllene5–8%2–4%
Farnesene0–1%0–4%
OriginUnited StatesFrance
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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