First GoldvsEroica

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

First Gold

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5.6–10%

Beta acid

2.3–4.1%

Total oil

0.7–1.5 mL

United Kingdom

Eroica

Bittering

Alpha acid

7.3–14.9%

Beta acid

3–5.3%

Total oil

0.8–1.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick First Gold

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

When to pick Eroica

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in First Gold

TangerineApricotMagnoliaRedberryHerbalOrangeHerbalSpicyFloral

Only in Eroica

-

Property

PropertyFirst GoldEroica
Alpha acid5.6–10%7.3–14.9%
Beta acid2.3–4.1%3–5.3%
Co-humulone29–35%40%
Total oil0.7–1.5 mL0.8–1.3 mL
Myrcene24–28%55–65%
Humulene20–24%0–1%
Caryophyllene6–7%7–13%
Farnesene2–4%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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