General Description

Created in 1990 and released to the world in 2008, Citra has quickly risen to become one of the most well known and sought after hops due to its pungent aroma descriptors which, as the name implies, imparts a strong citrus quality with an extraordinary flavour of grapefruit, lime and tropical fruits. Although it has a high Alpha Acid percentage, it is often warned to be careful when using this hop for bittering as it may lead to undesirable and harsh results.

Characteristics

Alpha Acids: 10 – 15%

Beta Acids: 3 – 4.5% 

Primary usage: Aromatic additions

Aromatic character: Citrus, grapefruit, lime, tropical fruit.

Complimentary beer styles

This hop strain is best used in beer styles such as:

IPA (Indian Pale Ale)

APA (American Pale Ale)

NEIPA (New England IPA)

American Ales

Amber Ale

Due to its relatively high Alpha Acid range and pungent and pleasant aromatic profile.

Substitutes

Simcoe

Cascade

Centennial

Mosaic

Keep in mind that alpha acid differences in substitutes may need to be accounted for when weighing out your quantities.

Storage

Colder is better when storing hops as the rate of loss halves for every 15°C lowered in temperature. Optimal storage conditions for hops are between -21°C - 0°C in a sealed, airtight environment.

Shelf life

If stored in ideal conditions your hops will only experience a rate of deterioration of about 10% for every 6 months stored. An unopened packet of hop pellets can effectively last up to 4 years in ideal conditions, though keep in mind that the rate of deterioration increases at higher temperatures and unsealed environments.