CitravsIdaho Gem

Citra and Idaho Gem 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

Idaho Gem

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–14%

Beta acid

5–7%

Total oil

1.3–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Citra

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma

When to pick Idaho Gem

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Citra

GrapefruitPeachMelonLimeFloralGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Only in Idaho Gem

PineappleCherryCandiedHerbalSpicyMintStone fruitRedberryMojitoSweet

Property

PropertyCitraIdaho Gem
Alpha acid10–15%11–14%
Beta acid3–4.5%5–7%
Co-humulone20–35%40–45%
Total oil1.5–3 mL1.3–2.3 mL
Myrcene60–70%-
Humulene7–13%-
Caryophyllene5–8%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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