CitravsGaia

Citra (dual purpose) and Gaia (bittering) 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

Gaia

Bittering

Alpha acid

12–15%

Beta acid

5–10%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

Czech Republic

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 Gaia

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Citra

CitrusGrapefruitPeachMelonLimeFloralGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Only in Gaia

HoppySpicy

Property

PropertyCitraGaia
Alpha acid10–15%12–15%
Beta acid3–4.5%5–10%
Co-humulone20–35%20–29%
Total oil1.5–3 mL1.5–2.5 mL
Myrcene60–70%23–37%
Humulene7–13%2–4%
Caryophyllene5–8%9–12%
Farnesene0–1%5–7%
OriginUnited StatesCzech Republic
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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