EroicavsFirst Gold

Eroica (bittering) and First Gold (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Eroica

Bittering

Alpha acid

7.3–14.9%

Beta acid

3–5.3%

Total oil

0.8–1.3 mL

United States

First Gold

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5.6–10%

Beta acid

2.3–4.1%

Total oil

0.7–1.5 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Eroica

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick First Gold

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Eroica

-

Only in First Gold

TangerineApricotMagnoliaRedberryHerbalOrangeHerbalSpicyFloral

Property

PropertyEroicaFirst Gold
Alpha acid7.3–14.9%5.6–10%
Beta acid3–5.3%2.3–4.1%
Co-humulone40%29–35%
Total oil0.8–1.3 mL0.7–1.5 mL
Myrcene55–65%24–28%
Humulene0–1%20–24%
Caryophyllene7–13%6–7%
Farnesene0–1%2–4%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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