CitravsFirst Gold

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

Citra

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10–15%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

First Gold

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5.6–10%

Beta acid

2.3–4.1%

Total oil

0.7–1.5 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Citra

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

When to pick First Gold

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Citra

CitrusGrapefruitPeachMelonLimeGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Only in First Gold

TangerineApricotMagnoliaRedberryHerbalOrangeHerbalSpicy

Property

PropertyCitraFirst Gold
Alpha acid10–15%5.6–10%
Beta acid3–4.5%2.3–4.1%
Co-humulone20–35%29–35%
Total oil1.5–3 mL0.7–1.5 mL
Myrcene60–70%24–28%
Humulene7–13%20–24%
Caryophyllene5–8%6–7%
Farnesene0–1%2–4%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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