First GoldvsMosaic

First Gold and Mosaic 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

Mosaic

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–13.5%

Beta acid

3.2–3.9%

Total oil

1–1.5 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 Mosaic

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

TangerineSpicy

Only in First Gold

ApricotMagnoliaRedberryHerbalOrangeHerbalFloral

Only in Mosaic

BlueberryTropicalCitrusGrassyPinePapayaRoseEarthyBlossomBubblegumGrapefruit

Property

PropertyFirst GoldMosaic
Alpha acid5.6–10%11.5–13.5%
Beta acid2.3–4.1%3.2–3.9%
Co-humulone29–35%24–26%
Total oil0.7–1.5 mL1–1.5 mL
Myrcene24–28%47–55%
Humulene20–24%10–16%
Caryophyllene6–7%3–8%
Farnesene2–4%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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