Citra
Alpha acid
10–15%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
1.5–3 mL
United States
Opal
Alpha acid
5–14%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
0.8–1.3 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Citra
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Opal
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
CitrusFloral
Only in Citra
GrapefruitPeachMelonLimeGooseberryPassion fruitLychee
Only in Opal
Black currantSpicyHerbalAnise
Property
| Property | Citra | Opal |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 10–15% | 5–14% |
| Beta acid | 3–4.5% | 3.5–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–35% | 13–34% |
| Total oil | 1.5–3 mL | 0.8–1.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 60–70% | 20–45% |
| Humulene | 7–13% | 30–50% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–8% | 8–15% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |