CitravsSamba

Citra (dual purpose) and Samba (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

Samba

Aroma

Alpha acid

8–12%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Citra

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Samba

  • 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 Samba

TropicalPineappleMangoStone fruitCandyOrange

Property

PropertyCitraSamba
Alpha acid10–15%8–12%
Beta acid3–4.5%4–6%
Co-humulone20–35%28–32%
Total oil1.5–3 mL1.5–2.5 mL
Myrcene60–70%-
Humulene7–13%-
Caryophyllene5–8%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

Related comparisons