VitalvsCitra

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

Vital

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–16%

Beta acid

6–11%

Total oil

1.1–2.5 mL

Czech Republic

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 Vital

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

When to pick Citra

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Vital

PlumLavenderSpicyLicorice

Only in Citra

CitrusGrapefruitPeachMelonLimeFloralGooseberryPassion fruitLychee

Property

PropertyVitalCitra
Alpha acid9–16%10–15%
Beta acid6–11%3–4.5%
Co-humulone21–26%20–35%
Total oil1.1–2.5 mL1.5–3 mL
Myrcene40–60%60–70%
Humulene2–5%7–13%
Caryophyllene5–8%5–8%
Farnesene1–3%0–1%
OriginCzech RepublicUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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