CitravsZenith

Citra (dual purpose) and Zenith (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

Zenith

Bittering

Alpha acid

9–11%

Beta acid

3%

Total oil

-

United States

Key differences

When to pick Citra

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Zenith

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusFloral

Only in Citra

GrapefruitPeachMelonLimeGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Only in Zenith

-

Property

PropertyCitraZenith
Alpha acid10–15%9–11%
Beta acid3–4.5%3%
Co-humulone20–35%25%
Total oil1.5–3 mL-
Myrcene60–70%51–53%
Humulene7–13%18–20%
Caryophyllene5–8%6–7%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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