CitravsMount Hood

Citra (dual purpose) and Mount Hood (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

Mount Hood

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.9–8%

Beta acid

5–8%

Total oil

1.2–1.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Citra

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Mount Hood

  • 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 Mount Hood

NobleHerbalPungentSpicy

Property

PropertyCitraMount Hood
Alpha acid10–15%3.9–8%
Beta acid3–4.5%5–8%
Co-humulone20–35%21–23%
Total oil1.5–3 mL1.2–1.7 mL
Myrcene60–70%30–40%
Humulene7–13%12–38%
Caryophyllene5–8%7–16%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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