CitravsPilgrim

Citra and Pilgrim 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

Pilgrim

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–13%

Beta acid

4.2–5.5%

Total oil

1–1.8 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
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Pilgrim

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusGrapefruit

Only in Citra

PeachMelonLimeFloralGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Only in Pilgrim

FruitySpicyLemonPearBerry

Property

PropertyCitraPilgrim
Alpha acid10–15%9–13%
Beta acid3–4.5%4.2–5.5%
Co-humulone20–35%36–38%
Total oil1.5–3 mL1–1.8 mL
Myrcene60–70%30–35%
Humulene7–13%21–25%
Caryophyllene5–8%-
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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