HarlequinvsCitra

Harlequin and Citra are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Harlequin

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–12%

Beta acid

7–9%

Total oil

1–1.6 mL

UK

Citra

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

10–15%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Harlequin

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

When to pick Citra

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Passion fruitPeach

Only in Harlequin

Pineapple

Only in Citra

CitrusGrapefruitMelonLimeFloralGooseberryLychee

Property

PropertyHarlequinCitra
Alpha acid9–12%10–15%
Beta acid7–9%3–4.5%
Co-humulone27–31%20–35%
Total oil1–1.6 mL1.5–3 mL
Myrcene59–61%60–70%
Humulene4–6%7–13%
Caryophyllene-5–8%
Farnesene9–11%0–1%
OriginUKUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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