First GoldvsNorthdown
First Gold and Northdown 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
Northdown
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
4–5.5%
Total oil
1.2–2.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick First Gold
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Northdown
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
SpicyFloral
Only in First Gold
TangerineApricotMagnoliaRedberryHerbalOrangeHerbal
Only in Northdown
PineCedarBerry
Property
| Property | First Gold | Northdown |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.6–10% | 7–10% |
| Beta acid | 2.3–4.1% | 4–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 29–35% | 24–32% |
| Total oil | 0.7–1.5 mL | 1.2–2.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 24–28% | 23–29% |
| Humulene | 20–24% | 40–45% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–7% | 13–17% |
| Farnesene | 2–4% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |