First GoldvsAdmiral
First Gold (dual purpose) and Admiral (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
First Gold
Alpha acid
5.6–10%
Beta acid
2.3–4.1%
Total oil
0.7–1.5 mL
United Kingdom
Admiral
Alpha acid
13–16.2%
Beta acid
4.8–6.1%
Total oil
1–1.7 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick First Gold
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Admiral
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
HerbalOrangeHerbal
Only in First Gold
TangerineApricotMagnoliaRedberrySpicyFloral
Only in Admiral
TeaFreshPineCitrusResin
Property
| Property | First Gold | Admiral |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.6–10% | 13–16.2% |
| Beta acid | 2.3–4.1% | 4.8–6.1% |
| Co-humulone | 29–35% | 37–45% |
| Total oil | 0.7–1.5 mL | 1–1.7 mL |
| Myrcene | 24–28% | 39–48% |
| Humulene | 20–24% | 23–26% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–7% | 6–8% |
| Farnesene | 2–4% | 0–2% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |
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