First GoldvsCitra
First Gold and Citra 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
Citra
Alpha acid
10–15%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
1.5–3 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 Citra
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in First Gold
TangerineApricotMagnoliaRedberryHerbalOrangeHerbalSpicy
Only in Citra
CitrusGrapefruitPeachMelonLimeGooseberryPassion fruitLychee
Property
| Property | First Gold | Citra |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.6–10% | 10–15% |
| Beta acid | 2.3–4.1% | 3–4.5% |
| Co-humulone | 29–35% | 20–35% |
| Total oil | 0.7–1.5 mL | 1.5–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 24–28% | 60–70% |
| Humulene | 20–24% | 7–13% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–7% | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | 2–4% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |