CitravsTahoma

Citra (dual purpose) and Tahoma (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

Tahoma

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–8.2%

Beta acid

8.5–9.5%

Total oil

1–2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Citra

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Tahoma

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusGrapefruit

Only in Citra

PeachMelonLimeFloralGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Only in Tahoma

LemonCedarPineSpicyOrangeWoody

Property

PropertyCitraTahoma
Alpha acid10–15%7–8.2%
Beta acid3–4.5%8.5–9.5%
Co-humulone20–35%15–17%
Total oil1.5–3 mL1–2 mL
Myrcene60–70%67–72%
Humulene7–13%9–11%
Caryophyllene5–8%2–4%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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