CitravsSaaz (US)

Citra (dual purpose) and Saaz (US) (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

Saaz (US)

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–4.5%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

0.5–1 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 Saaz (US)

  • 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 Saaz (US)

SlightlyEarthyNoble

Property

PropertyCitraSaaz (US)
Alpha acid10–15%3–4.5%
Beta acid3–4.5%3–4.5%
Co-humulone20–35%24–28%
Total oil1.5–3 mL0.5–1 mL
Myrcene60–70%25–30%
Humulene7–13%35–40%
Caryophyllene5–8%9–11%
Farnesene0–1%9–13%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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