Meridian
Alpha acid
5–7%
Beta acid
6–9%
Total oil
1–1.6 mL
United States
Citra
Alpha acid
10–15%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
1.5–3 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Meridian
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Citra
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Citrus
Only in Meridian
LemonBerryTropicalMintSpearmint
Only in Citra
GrapefruitPeachMelonLimeFloralGooseberryPassion fruitLychee
Property
| Property | Meridian | Citra |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5–7% | 10–15% |
| Beta acid | 6–9% | 3–4.5% |
| Co-humulone | 45–50% | 20–35% |
| Total oil | 1–1.6 mL | 1.5–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 29–31% | 60–70% |
| Humulene | 7–9% | 7–13% |
| Caryophyllene | 3–4% | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |