SunvsFirst Gold
Sun (bittering) and First Gold (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Sun
Alpha acid
12–16%
Beta acid
4.5–7%
Total oil
-
United States
First Gold
Alpha acid
5.6–10%
Beta acid
2.3–4.1%
Total oil
0.7–1.5 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Sun
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick First Gold
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Herbal
Only in Sun
-
Only in First Gold
TangerineApricotMagnoliaRedberryOrangeSpicyFloral
Property
| Property | Sun | First Gold |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–16% | 5.6–10% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–7% | 2.3–4.1% |
| Co-humulone | 30–40% | 29–35% |
| Total oil | - | 0.7–1.5 mL |
| Myrcene | - | 24–28% |
| Humulene | - | 20–24% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 6–7% |
| Farnesene | - | 2–4% |
| Origin | United States | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |