CitravsSussex

Citra (dual purpose) and Sussex (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

Sussex

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.3–5.8%

Beta acid

2.4–3.2%

Total oil

0.4–0.6 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
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Sussex

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Citra

GrapefruitPeachMelonLimeFloralGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Only in Sussex

EarthyGrassyMintVanilla

Property

PropertyCitraSussex
Alpha acid10–15%4.3–5.8%
Beta acid3–4.5%2.4–3.2%
Co-humulone20–35%29–32%
Total oil1.5–3 mL0.4–0.6 mL
Myrcene60–70%41–43%
Humulene7–13%22–24%
Caryophyllene5–8%-
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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