Hop substitute guide

Citra Hop substitutes and hop flavour/profile

Citra hop substitute guide with Specific aroma descriptors include grapefruit, melon, lime, gooseberry, passion fruit and lychee. Alternative hops include...

If you are out of Citra hops, use this profile to pick a substitute with a similar flavour direction and brewing role.

Citra Flavour Profile

Grapefruit, lime, passion fruit, lychee, tropical fruit

Best Used In

American IPA, New England IPA, Double IPA, Pale Ale

Citra Hop Substitutes

Mosaic Simcoe Galaxy El Dorado

Citra hop substitute FAQ

What can I substitute for Citra hops?

Start with Mosaic, Simcoe, Galaxy, and El Dorado, then compare the alpha acid and flavour profile against the role of Citra in your recipe.

What beer styles use Citra?

Citra is commonly listed for American IPA, New England IPA, and Double IPA. Use the style fit as a guide when choosing between possible substitutes.

Do alpha acids matter when replacing Citra?

Yes. This profile lists Citra around 11.0-15.0% alpha acids. For bittering additions, adjust the hop weight if your substitute is much higher or lower.

Should late additions and dry hops be substituted differently?

Yes. Bittering swaps should prioritize alpha acid and timing, while late additions and dry hops should prioritize aroma, flavour, and the beer style you are brewing.

Citra Hop Characteristics

Also Known As Citra® Brand HBC 394 cv
Characteristics Citrus, grapefruit, lime, tropical fruits, harsh bitterness
Purpose Bittering & Aroma
Alpha Acid Composition 10%-15%
Beta Acid Composition 3%-4.5%
Co-Humulone Composition 20%-35%
Country US
Cone Size Medium
Cone Density Tight
Seasonal Maturity Mid
Yield Amount 1600-1800 kg/hectare (1400-1600 lbs/acre)
Growth Rate Medium to high
Resistant to Downy mildew, powdery mildew and verticillium wilt
Susceptible to Aphids
Storability Retains 75% alpha acid after 6 months storage at 20ºC (68ºF)
Ease of Harvest Easy to moderate
Total Oil Composition 1.5-3 mL/100g
Myrcene Oil Composition 60%-70%
Humulene Oil Composition 7%-12%
Caryophyllene Oil 5%-8%
Farnesene Oil 1%