CitravsEpic

Citra (dual purpose) and Epic (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

Epic

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–5%

Beta acid

1.7–2.5%

Total oil

0.4–0.8 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Citra

  • 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
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Epic

  • 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 Epic

FruityBerryHerbal

Property

PropertyCitraEpic
Alpha acid10–15%3–5%
Beta acid3–4.5%1.7–2.5%
Co-humulone20–35%30–33%
Total oil1.5–3 mL0.4–0.8 mL
Myrcene60–70%11–12%
Humulene7–13%41–43%
Caryophyllene5–8%1–2%
Farnesene0–1%1–2%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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