CitravsEnigma

Citra (dual purpose) and Enigma (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

Enigma

Aroma

Alpha acid

13.5–19.4%

Beta acid

4.5–7.1%

Total oil

1.8–3 mL

Australia

Key differences

When to pick Citra

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Enigma

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Citra

CitrusGrapefruitPeachMelonLimeFloralGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Only in Enigma

TropicalBerryStone fruitRaspberryRedcurrantWhite

Property

PropertyCitraEnigma
Alpha acid10–15%13.5–19.4%
Beta acid3–4.5%4.5–7.1%
Co-humulone20–35%37–43%
Total oil1.5–3 mL1.8–3 mL
Myrcene60–70%23–30%
Humulene7–13%12–19%
Caryophyllene5–8%6–8%
Farnesene0–1%9–12%
OriginUnited StatesAustralia
PurposeDual purposeAroma

Related comparisons