First GoldvsMinstrel
First Gold and Minstrel 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
Minstrel
Alpha acid
5–7%
Beta acid
3–3.5%
Total oil
0.5–0.7 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick First Gold
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Minstrel
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
HerbalOrangeHerbalSpicy
Only in First Gold
TangerineApricotMagnoliaRedberryFloral
Only in Minstrel
Berry
Property
| Property | First Gold | Minstrel |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.6–10% | 5–7% |
| Beta acid | 2.3–4.1% | 3–3.5% |
| Co-humulone | 29–35% | 22–26% |
| Total oil | 0.7–1.5 mL | 0.5–0.7 mL |
| Myrcene | 24–28% | 22–25% |
| Humulene | 20–24% | 1–4% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–7% | - |
| Farnesene | 2–4% | 7–9% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |
Willamette