Hop Pellets Citra

Citra is one of the most popular hops in the world, a high-impact US variety loved for a huge hit of grapefruit, lime and tropical fruit. It is a high-alpha, dual-purpose pellet that most brewers save for late and dry-hop additions in juicy, hop-forward beers.

Best suited to

• Hazy IPA and New England IPA
• American IPA and pale ale
• XPA and session ales
• Tropical, fruit-forward ales
• Dry-hopped lagers

Typical specs (vary by harvest, check the pack)

• Variety / origin: Citra, United States
• Form: T-90 pellets
• Purpose: Dual purpose (shines as aroma and flavour)
• Alpha acid: typically 11-13%
• Beta acid: typically 3.5-4.5%
• Co-humulone: typically 20-24% of alpha
• Total oil: typically 2-3 mL/100g
• Character: grapefruit, lime, passionfruit, lychee

When to choose this over alternatives

Citra is the benchmark for tropical citrus punch. Next to Galaxy it leans more towards grapefruit and lime where Galaxy pushes passionfruit and peach, so the two make a brilliant pair in a hazy. Blend Citra with Mosaic for a deeper berry-and-tropical wall, or with Amarillo for more orange. It is confident enough to run single-hopped and let the grapefruit and lime do all the talking.

Practical notes

Citra rewards late use. Keep it for the whirlpool and dry hop where its tropical citrus really sings, and use only a small early charge for bittering since the alpha is high. For a hazy or juicy pale ale, 30 to 60g of dry hops is a good starting point. A short contact time of 2 to 3 days keeps the aroma clean and juicy. Store cold and sealed, push the air out, and use within 12 months of opening.

Reviewed by the AHB Brewing Team - June 2026