CitravsSmaragd

Citra (dual purpose) and Smaragd (bittering) 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

Smaragd

Bittering

Alpha acid

4–6%

Beta acid

3.5–5.5%

Total oil

0.4–0.8 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
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Smaragd

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Citra

CitrusGrapefruitPeachMelonLimeGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Only in Smaragd

FruitySpicyTobaccoAniseCloveNoble

Property

PropertyCitraSmaragd
Alpha acid10–15%4–6%
Beta acid3–4.5%3.5–5.5%
Co-humulone20–35%13–18%
Total oil1.5–3 mL0.4–0.8 mL
Myrcene60–70%20–40%
Humulene7–13%30–50%
Caryophyllene5–8%9–14%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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