PilgrimvsCitra

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

Pilgrim

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–13%

Beta acid

4.2–5.5%

Total oil

1–1.8 mL

United Kingdom

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 Pilgrim

  • 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

GrapefruitCitrus

Only in Pilgrim

FruitySpicyLemonPearBerry

Only in Citra

PeachMelonLimeFloralGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Property

PropertyPilgrimCitra
Alpha acid9–13%10–15%
Beta acid4.2–5.5%3–4.5%
Co-humulone36–38%20–35%
Total oil1–1.8 mL1.5–3 mL
Myrcene30–35%60–70%
Humulene21–25%7–13%
Caryophyllene-5–8%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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