First GoldvsFuggle
First Gold (dual purpose) and Fuggle (aroma) 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
Fuggle
Alpha acid
2.4–6.1%
Beta acid
2.1–3.5%
Total oil
0.44–1 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick First Gold
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Fuggle
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in First Gold
TangerineApricotMagnoliaRedberryHerbalOrangeHerbalSpicyFloral
Only in Fuggle
WoodyGrassyMintMild
Property
| Property | First Gold | Fuggle |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.6–10% | 2.4–6.1% |
| Beta acid | 2.3–4.1% | 2.1–3.5% |
| Co-humulone | 29–35% | 25–32% |
| Total oil | 0.7–1.5 mL | 0.44–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 24–28% | 15–25% |
| Humulene | 20–24% | 30–40% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–7% | 11–15% |
| Farnesene | 2–4% | 5–8% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Styrian Golding
Willamette