First GoldvsTarget
First Gold (dual purpose) and Target (bittering) 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
Target
Alpha acid
8.5–13.5%
Beta acid
4.3–5.7%
Total oil
1–1.4 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick First Gold
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Target
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Spicy
Only in First Gold
TangerineApricotMagnoliaRedberryHerbalOrangeHerbalFloral
Only in Target
CitrusMarmaladeSagePepper
Property
| Property | First Gold | Target |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.6–10% | 8.5–13.5% |
| Beta acid | 2.3–4.1% | 4.3–5.7% |
| Co-humulone | 29–35% | 35–40% |
| Total oil | 0.7–1.5 mL | 1–1.4 mL |
| Myrcene | 24–28% | 45–55% |
| Humulene | 20–24% | 17–23% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–7% | 8–10% |
| Farnesene | 2–4% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |
Willamette