Melba
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
2.5–5%
Total oil
2–4 mL
Australia
Citra
Alpha acid
10–15%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
1.5–3 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Melba
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Citra
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Passion fruitGrapefruitCitrus
Only in Melba
Spicy
Only in Citra
PeachMelonLimeFloralGooseberryLychee
Property
| Property | Melba | Citra |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 7–10% | 10–15% |
| Beta acid | 2.5–5% | 3–4.5% |
| Co-humulone | 25–35% | 20–35% |
| Total oil | 2–4 mL | 1.5–3 mL |
| Myrcene | - | 60–70% |
| Humulene | - | 7–13% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | - | 0–1% |
| Origin | Australia | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |