First GoldvsBelma
First Gold and Belma are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
First Gold
Alpha acid
5.6–10%
Beta acid
2.3–4.1%
Total oil
0.7–1.5 mL
United Kingdom
Belma
Alpha acid
8.5–12.1%
Beta acid
4–8%
Total oil
1–2.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick First Gold
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick Belma
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Orange
Only in First Gold
TangerineApricotMagnoliaRedberryHerbalHerbalSpicyFloral
Only in Belma
MelonStrawberryPineappleGrapefruitBerryCitrusTropical
Property
| Property | First Gold | Belma |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.6–10% | 8.5–12.1% |
| Beta acid | 2.3–4.1% | 4–8% |
| Co-humulone | 29–35% | - |
| Total oil | 0.7–1.5 mL | 1–2.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 24–28% | 65–68% |
| Humulene | 20–24% | - |
| Caryophyllene | 6–7% | - |
| Farnesene | 2–4% | - |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |
Huell Melon
Pacific Gem