First GoldvsCentennial

First Gold and Centennial are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

First Gold

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5.6–10%

Beta acid

2.3–4.1%

Total oil

0.7–1.5 mL

United Kingdom

Centennial

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–12%

Beta acid

3.5–5.5%

Total oil

1–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick First Gold

  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Centennial

  • 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

TangerineFloral

Only in First Gold

ApricotMagnoliaRedberryHerbalOrangeHerbalSpicy

Only in Centennial

PineCitrusGrapefruit

Property

PropertyFirst GoldCentennial
Alpha acid5.6–10%7–12%
Beta acid2.3–4.1%3.5–5.5%
Co-humulone29–35%23–30%
Total oil0.7–1.5 mL1–3 mL
Myrcene24–28%55–65%
Humulene20–24%10–20%
Caryophyllene6–7%5–7%
Farnesene2–4%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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