First GoldvsZeus
First Gold (dual purpose) and Zeus (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
Zeus
Alpha acid
13–17.5%
Beta acid
4–6.5%
Total oil
2.4–4.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick First Gold
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Zeus
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in First Gold
TangerineApricotMagnoliaRedberryHerbalOrangeHerbalSpicyFloral
Only in Zeus
Black currantLicoriceCurryPungent
Property
| Property | First Gold | Zeus |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.6–10% | 13–17.5% |
| Beta acid | 2.3–4.1% | 4–6.5% |
| Co-humulone | 29–35% | 28–40% |
| Total oil | 0.7–1.5 mL | 2.4–4.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 24–28% | 45–60% |
| Humulene | 20–24% | 9–18% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–7% | 6–11% |
| Farnesene | 2–4% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |