First GoldvsRiwaka
First Gold (dual purpose) and Riwaka (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
Riwaka
Alpha acid
4.5–6.5%
Beta acid
4–5%
Total oil
0.8–1.5 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick First Gold
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Riwaka
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- 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 Riwaka
TropicalPassion fruitGrapefruitCitrus
Property
| Property | First Gold | Riwaka |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.6–10% | 4.5–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 2.3–4.1% | 4–5% |
| Co-humulone | 29–35% | 29–38% |
| Total oil | 0.7–1.5 mL | 0.8–1.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 24–28% | 67–70% |
| Humulene | 20–24% | 8–10% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–7% | 2–6% |
| Farnesene | 2–4% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |
Calypso