Petit BlancvsCitra
Petit Blanc (aroma) and Citra (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Petit Blanc
Alpha acid
2–4%
Beta acid
5–6%
Total oil
0.5–0.8 mL
France
Citra
Alpha acid
10–15%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
1.5–3 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Petit Blanc
- 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
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Melon
Only in Petit Blanc
CherryPapayaGreenLilac
Only in Citra
CitrusGrapefruitPeachLimeFloralGooseberryPassion fruitLychee
Property
| Property | Petit Blanc | Citra |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 2–4% | 10–15% |
| Beta acid | 5–6% | 3–4.5% |
| Co-humulone | 15% | 20–35% |
| Total oil | 0.5–0.8 mL | 1.5–3 mL |
| Myrcene | - | 60–70% |
| Humulene | - | 7–13% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | - | 0–1% |
| Origin | France | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |