CitravsToyomidori

Citra (dual purpose) and Toyomidori (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

Toyomidori

Bittering

Alpha acid

11–13%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

0.8–1.2 mL

Japan

Key differences

When to pick Citra

  • 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 Toyomidori

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Citra

CitrusGrapefruitPeachMelonLimeFloralGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Only in Toyomidori

MildFruityTobaccoGreen

Property

PropertyCitraToyomidori
Alpha acid10–15%11–13%
Beta acid3–4.5%5–6%
Co-humulone20–35%40%
Total oil1.5–3 mL0.8–1.2 mL
Myrcene60–70%58–60%
Humulene7–13%9–12%
Caryophyllene5–8%4–5%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesJapan
PurposeDual purposeBittering

Related comparisons