CitravsElixir

Citra (dual purpose) and Elixir (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

Elixir

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.6–7%

Beta acid

4.5–6.6%

Total oil

1.8–2.2 mL

France

Key differences

When to pick Citra

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Elixir

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusFloral

Only in Citra

GrapefruitPeachMelonLimeGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Only in Elixir

RoseCognacLeatherTobaccoTropicalTangerineOrangeSandalwoodSpicy

Property

PropertyCitraElixir
Alpha acid10–15%4.6–7%
Beta acid3–4.5%4.5–6.6%
Co-humulone20–35%25–30%
Total oil1.5–3 mL1.8–2.2 mL
Myrcene60–70%65–75%
Humulene7–13%1–2%
Caryophyllene5–8%26–27%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesFrance
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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