Description
Naming
First known as HBC 394, it was created by Hop Breeding Company, a joint venture between John I. Haas, Inc. and Select Botanicals Group in Yakima Valley. It was named Citra for its intense citrus flavors and aromas.
Origin Story
Citra was released to the brewing world in 2008. Now one of the most coveted aroma hops, particularly among craft brewers, it has a lineage that includes the likes of Hallertau Mittelfrüh (father), Tettnanger (US), Brewer’s Gold and East Kent Golding.
Characteristics
As the name suggests, it has a strong citrusy profile. This is largely credited to its very high myrcene content. It has an extraordinary flavor profile of grapefruit, lime and tropical fruits.
Citra hops are noted for their higher Geraniol content, which is biotransformed by yeast into Citronellol, a highly sought-after aroma compound in fruit-forward IPAs.
It is definitely one of the most popular hops by brewers in IPAs, Strong Ales and Belgian Ales. It pairs well with other hops including but not limited to: Mosaic, Simcoe, Amarillo, El Dorado, Galaxy, Columbus, Centennial & Chinook.
Specs
- Alpha-Acids: 11 – 15%
- Beta-Acids: 3 – 4.5%
- Oil Content: 2.2 – 2.8 ml/100g
- Contributions: Citrus flavor, tropical fruit
- Suitable for the following beer styles: IPA, Pale Ales, Strong Ales.
- Alternatives: Simcoe®, Cascade (USA), Centennial, Mosaic®
- Purpose of Use: Classified as dual purpose, but why would you bitter with it?
- Country of Origin: U.S.A.
We have technical specifications for all of our hops related to specific lots.