Find the best Eclipse hop substitutes with sweet mandarin and citrus character. Discover Australian and American alternatives for fruit-forward IPAs and NEIPAs.
Finding the right Eclipse hop substitute involves more than matching alpha acid percentages on paper. It’s about capturing that distinctive combination of sweet mandarin, zesty citrus peel, and fresh pine needles that defines this Australian variety. After brewing with Eclipse and testing various alternatives over the past three years, I’ve identified which substitutes actually deliver on their fruity promises and which disappoint when you’re chasing that juicy mandarin character.
This guide explores proven alternatives that maintain your beer’s intended flavor profile while potentially adding interesting new dimensions. Whether you’re brewing a fruit-forward NEIPA, balanced pale ale, or hoppy lager, you’ll find practical solutions that work.
Understanding Eclipse’s Mandarin Magic
Eclipse emerged from Hop Products Australia’s breeding program after originating as a cross in 2004 and reaching commercial release in 2020. This Australian hop delivers sweet mandarin, zesty citrus peel, fresh pine needles, kiwi, and grapefruit with subtle basil undertones. What really distinguishes Eclipse is its ancestry as a cross between high-alpha Australian hops and North American varieties, creating a unique flavor bridge between hemispheres.With alpha acids ranging from 15.7-19.1% and total oil content up to 3 mL/100g, Eclipse packs serious punch in both bittering and aroma applications. The hop’s myrcene content (41-44% of total oils) contributes to its intense fruity characteristics, while elevated caryophyllene (11-13%) adds spicy complexity that sets it apart from simpler citrus varieties.
When I first brewed with Eclipse in a single-hop pale ale last year, the mandarin aroma was so pronounced and authentic that several tasters thought I’d added actual mandarin zest. That clean, identifiable fruit character is Eclipse’s magic – bold mandarin expression without the harsh vegetal notes that plague some fruit-forward hops.
Top Eclipse Hop Substitute Options
Galaxy: The Australian Tropical Powerhouse
Galaxy stands as the most logical Eclipse substitute given their shared Australian heritage and similar tropical intensity. This iconic hop delivers passion fruit, peach, citrus, and tropical characteristics with alpha acids of 13-16% that provide substantial bittering capability.
Released by Hop Products Australia in 2009 after nine years of development, Galaxy descended from German Perle but expresses wholly Australian tropical character. The hop’s massive essential oil content (3-5 mL/100g) – one of the highest in the industry – creates persistent aroma even at moderate hopping rates.
I’ve successfully substituted Galaxy for Eclipse in hazy IPAs by matching weights directly and adjusting for slightly lower alpha acids. The beer’s character shifts toward passion fruit and peach rather than pure mandarin, but the overall tropical fruit intensity remains impressive. Use Galaxy when you want bold Australian character even if the specific fruit profile changes slightly.
Citra: The American Citrus King
Citra brings grapefruit, lime, mango, passion fruit, and lychee with alpha acids of 11-13% that handle dual-purpose applications beautifully. This American hop from the Hop Breeding Company has become ubiquitous in modern IPAs for good reason – consistent quality, wide availability, and intense citrus character.
What makes Citra compelling as an Eclipse substitute is its citrus-forward profile that emphasizes grapefruit and lime. While it lacks Eclipse’s specific sweet mandarin character, Citra’s clean citrus expression and high myrcene content (60-70% of total oils) create similar fruit-forward impact in finished beer.
When substituting Citra for Eclipse, I typically increase late addition quantities by about 15-20% to compensate for different oil compositions and lower alpha acids. The hop’s massive availability makes it the safest choice for most brewers seeking citrus character without hunting specialty Australian varieties.
Amarillo: Orange-Forward Complexity
Amarillo hops offer orange, grapefruit, peach, and melon characteristics with 8-11% alpha acids. This proprietary variety from Virgil Gamache Farms delivers approachable fruit character that’s less aggressive than Citra while more complex than Cascade.
What distinguishes Amarillo is its specific emphasis on orange and mandarin-like citrus rather than pure grapefruit. This makes it one of the better flavor matches for Eclipse’s sweet mandarin character, even if the intensity differs. The hop’s ability to create perceived sweetness without adding actual sugars complements fruit-forward beer styles beautifully.
Use about 30-40% more Amarillo by weight compared to Eclipse in late additions to compensate for lower alpha acids and different oil content. I’ve had excellent results pairing Amarillo with small amounts of pine-forward hops like Simcoe to recreate Eclipse’s pine needle undertones.
Centennial: Balanced Citrus Classic
Centennial delivers floral, citrus, lemon, and pine with alpha acids of 9.5-11.5%. Released in 1990 as “Super Cascade,” Centennial provides amplified citrus character with clean bitterness that works across multiple beer styles.
The hop’s balanced profile creates clean citrus notes rather than aggressive mandarin punch. This makes Centennial ideal when you want citrus presence without Eclipse’s fruit-bomb intensity dominating your beer. The moderate oil content means you’ll need to increase late addition quantities by 25-35% to match Eclipse’s aromatic impact.
I find Centennial performs best in lighter styles like pale ales and lagers where its refined citrus character complements rather than overwhelms delicate malt profiles. For hop-forward styles demanding more intensity, blend Centennial with Galaxy or Citra for better coverage.
Enigma: Australian Berry-Citrus Fusion
Enigma hops bring white grape, raspberry, red currant, melon, and stone fruit with massive alpha acids of 16.7-19.4%. This Australian variety from HPA (released 2013) crosses Tettnanger with North American hops, creating unique character often described as “Pinot Gris wine-like.”
What makes Enigma interesting as an Eclipse substitute is its shared Australian terroir and similar alpha acid range. While Enigma emphasizes berry and white wine notes over mandarin, its complex fruit profile creates compelling alternatives in experimental beers. The hop’s elevated alpha acids match Eclipse almost perfectly, requiring minimal quantity adjustments for bittering applications.
Use Enigma when you’re open to exploring different fruit territory while maintaining Australian hop character. The hop’s berry-forward profile diverges significantly from Eclipse’s citrus focus, but creates equally interesting fruit-forward beers that showcase Southern Hemisphere hop magic.
Blending Strategies for Complete Substitution
The 70/30 Australian Blend
My most successful Eclipse replacement combines 70% Galaxy with 30% Amarillo. This blend captures Galaxy’s tropical intensity and Australian character while Amarillo adds sweet orange-mandarin notes that approximate Eclipse’s signature flavor. The combination creates more complete fruit coverage than either hop alone.
Calculate your total hop bill first, then split according to this ratio for all post-boil additions. For bittering, consider using just Galaxy to establish baseline bitterness while reserving the blend for aromatic applications where fruit character really matters.
The Citrus Trio Approach
For brewers seeking maximum citrus complexity, combine 50% Citra, 30% Galaxy, and 20% Amarillo. This ambitious blend layers multiple citrus dimensions – Citra’s grapefruit-lime, Galaxy’s tropical punch, and Amarillo’s sweet orange. The result emphasizes overall citrus character rather than specific mandarin but creates remarkable depth.
Use this approach in hazy IPAs and double IPAs where hop complexity matters as much as intensity. The multiple varieties create layered aromatics that evolve as the beer warms, revealing different fruit characteristics at different temperatures.
Single-Hop Simplicity
Sometimes simplicity wins. For straightforward pale ales or NEIPAs where tropical fruit character matters most, Galaxy alone provides the most direct substitution. Use 10-15% more by weight in late additions to compensate for slightly lower alpha acids and any aromatic differences.
For beers demanding broader citrus coverage without specific Australian character, Citra by itself works beautifully despite lacking sweet mandarin specificity. The hop’s massive availability and consistent quality make it ideal when you need reliable results without complex blending.
Beer Style Considerations
NEIPAs and Hazy IPAs
These juice-forward styles showcase tropical and citrus hops at their absolute best. Galaxy or Citra work exceptionally well as Eclipse substitutes, particularly when paired with NEIPA yeast strains that create complementary fruity esters through biotransformation.
Use generous whirlpool additions (1.5-2.5 oz per gallon) and massive dry hop charges (3-5 oz per gallon) to extract maximum fruit character. Split dry hop additions between active fermentation (for biotransformation) and post-fermentation (for fresh aromatics) to create layered complexity.
Pale Ales and IPAs
Balanced American ales benefit from Citra or Amarillo substitutions that provide citrus character without overwhelming malt presence. These hops’ moderate-to-high alpha acids create pleasant bitterness supporting drinkability while their fruit profiles add modern craft appeal.
Keep total hop rates reasonable (1-2 oz per gallon across all additions) to maintain balance. Focus additions at whirlpool (170-180°F for 20-30 minutes) and moderate dry hopping (1-2 oz per gallon) where citrus character shines without excessive bitterness.
Lagers and Light Ales
Clean, crisp styles showcase Centennial or moderate Galaxy usage beautifully as Eclipse substitutes. These approaches provide citrus enhancement without overwhelming traditional beer character or creating excessive phenolic flavors that would clash with lager’s clean profile.
Use restrained hopping rates (0.5-1 oz per gallon total) with emphasis on late additions where fruit character develops without harsh bitterness. The goal is subtle mandarin or citrus enhancement rather than aggressive hop-forward intensity.
Eclipse Hop Substitute Comparison Chart – Alpha Acids, Flavors, and Beer Style Compatibility
Timing Your Hop Additions for Maximum Mandarin
Bittering Additions (60 Minutes)
When substituting Eclipse in bittering roles, adjust quantities based on alpha acid percentages. If your recipe calls for 1 oz of Eclipse (17% AA) but you’re using Citra (12% AA), use approximately 1.4 oz for equivalent bitterness.
Honestly, I prefer using neutral bittering hops like Warrior or Magnum for 60-minute additions, reserving Eclipse substitutes for later stages where their mandarin and citrus character really shines. This approach maximizes aroma while avoiding wasted volatile oils driven off during extended boiling.
Flavor Additions (10-20 Minutes)
This window captures moderate bittering plus significant flavor contribution. Amarillo and Centennial excel here, releasing balanced citrus character without excessive bitterness. The extended contact time extracts oils while the active boil integrates flavors smoothly.
Add 0.5-1 oz per gallon at the 15-minute mark when using these substitutes. This timing provides enough heat for extraction while preserving delicate mandarin and citrus aromatics that would be lost during longer boils.
Whirlpool and Flameout Excellence
Late additions maximize aroma while minimizing bitterness – perfect for all Eclipse substitutes. Hold your wort temperature around 170-180°F and steep for 20-30 minutes to extract maximum mandarin and citrus character without harsh compounds.
Whirlpool additions have become my preferred method for showcasing fruity Australian and American hops. The gentler extraction preserves volatile mandarin esters while ensuring thorough oil dissolution. I typically use 1.5-2 oz per gallon at this stage for hop-forward styles, slightly less (0.75-1 oz per gallon) for balanced pale ales.
Dry Hopping Techniques
Dry hopping extracts pure aromatics without adding bitterness, making it ideal for emphasizing mandarin character. Add hops when fermentation is 75% complete (around day 3-4 for most ales) to maximize biotransformation where yeast converts hop compounds into enhanced fruit flavors.
Use 2-4 oz per gallon for hazy IPAs, 1-2 oz per gallon for pale ales, and 0.5-1 oz per gallon for lagers. Galaxy and Enigma benefit from 3-5 day contact time, while Citra should be limited to 2-3 days maximum to avoid grassy notes developing from extended contact.
Adjusting for Alpha Acids and Oil Content
Understanding Eclipse’s Profile
Eclipse’s high alpha acids (15.7-19.1%) create substantial bittering potential that most substitutes can’t match directly. When using lower-alpha varieties like Amarillo (8-11%), you’ll need to increase quantities proportionally for equivalent bitterness.
Use this formula for bittering additions: (Eclipse AA% ÷ Substitute AA%) × Original Amount = Substitute Amount. For example: (17% ÷ 10%) × 1 oz = 1.7 oz of Amarillo needed to replace 1 oz of Eclipse for bittering.
Oil Content Considerations
Eclipse’s substantial oil content (up to 3 mL/100g) creates powerful aromatic impact. Substitutes like Galaxy (3-5 mL/100g) deliver comparable or greater intensity at similar weights. Citra’s oils (1.5-3 mL/100g) require slight quantity increases (10-15%) in late additions to match Eclipse’s aromatic punch.
Understanding oil profiles helps predict how substitutes will perform. Higher myrcene percentages generally mean more pronounced fruity character – Eclipse’s 41-44% myrcene creates bold mandarin notes, while Citra’s 60-70% myrcene produces intense overall fruitiness with different specific fruit character.
Water Chemistry for Citrus Expression
Sulfate-to-Chloride Ratios
Your water profile dramatically impacts how citrus hop substitutes express themselves. Higher sulfate concentrations (150-300 ppm) accentuate hop character and create crisp finishes that showcase mandarin and citrus notes. Higher chloride levels (100-150 ppm) promote fuller body and malt sweetness that can soften fruit impact.
For Eclipse substitutes emphasizing mandarin and citrus character, target a 2:1 or 3:1 sulfate-to-chloride ratio. This mineral balance brings forward fruit characteristics while maintaining refreshing drinkability. Hazy IPAs benefit from more balanced 1:1 ratios supporting juicy, soft mouthfeel that complements fruit-forward hops.
pH and Hop Performance
Proper mash pH (5.2-5.6) affects hop utilization and final beer flavor. Lower pH levels can accentuate perceived hop bitterness, while higher pH creates softer, rounder profiles. Use brewing software or pH meters to dial in optimal water chemistry.Small water chemistry adjustments make significant differences in how your Eclipse substitutes perform. This often-overlooked aspect of hop-forward brewing separates good beers from truly exceptional ones.
Yeast Strain Synergies
Complementary Yeast Choices
Your yeast selection can enhance or detract from hop-derived mandarin character. Clean American ale strains (WLP001/US-05) provide neutral fermentation that lets citrus hop flavors shine without competition. NEIPA yeasts (WLP066/A38 Juice) create biotransformation compounds that amplify tropical fruit perception synergistically.
For lagers featuring Eclipse substitutes, German lager strains (WLP830/W-34/70) offer clean canvases where delicate mandarin notes can express themselves fully. The crisp fermentation character of these yeasts complements rather than competes with hop-derived fruit flavors.
Fermentation Temperature Impact
Warmer fermentation temperatures (68-72°F for ales) increase ester production that can amplify perceived fruitiness from hops. Cooler temperatures (62-66°F for ales, 48-54°F for lagers) minimize yeast-derived flavors, creating cleaner canvases for hop character.
I ferment most fruit hop-forward beers at 66-68°F – warm enough for healthy fermentation and beneficial biotransformation but cool enough to avoid excessive yeast esters that might compete with delicate mandarin aromatics from the hops.
Sourcing and Availability
Where to Find These Hops
Most Eclipse substitutes enjoy significantly wider availability than Eclipse itself, which often sells out quickly due to limited Australian production. Yakima Valley Hops, BSG Craft Brewing, Northern Brewer, and local homebrew shops typically stock Citra, Amarillo, and Centennial year-round.
Galaxy availability has improved dramatically as Australian production expands, though it remains more expensive than American varieties. Enigma requires specialty hop vendors or direct orders from suppliers carrying Hop Products Australia varieties.
Crop Year Variations
Hop characteristics shift between crop years due to weather, soil conditions, and harvest timing. 2024 crop Galaxy shows particularly strong tropical fruit notes, while some 2023 lots emphasized more grassy character. These variations aren’t defects – they’re natural characteristics that keep brewing interesting.
When possible, smell hops before purchasing. Fresh hops release intense aromatics when rubbed between your palms. Avoid packages with cheesy, sweaty, or oxidized odors indicating poor storage or old stock.
Storage Best Practices
Store all hops in oxygen-barrier bags (mylar) in your freezer at 0°F or below. Properly stored hops maintain character for 12-18 months, though fruity varieties are best used within 6-9 months for peak aromatics since delicate mandarin and citrus esters fade faster than bittering compounds.
Remove only what you need for each brew day, keeping bulk packages sealed and frozen. Temperature fluctuations from repeated opening degrade hop oils faster than steady frozen storage.
Common Substitution Mistakes to Avoid
Over-Hopping to Compensate
When substituting lower-alpha hops like Amarillo, resist the temptation to dramatically increase late-addition quantities beyond what calculations suggest. Excessive late hopping creates grassy, vegetal flavors that overwhelm the mandarin character you’re seeking.
Trust the math and your recipes. If calculations say you need 1.5 oz of Amarillo to replace 1 oz of Eclipse, start there rather than doubling “just to be safe.”
Ignoring Regional Character
Eclipse’s Australian terroir contributes to its unique character beyond just flavor descriptors. Using only American substitutes like Citra changes the beer’s overall personality even if citrus notes remain present. Consider including at least one Australian hop (Galaxy or Enigma) when substituting to maintain regional character.
Wrong Style Applications
Using berry-forward substitutes like Enigma in traditional lagers often disappoints when white wine and raspberry notes clash with clean lager expectations. Match substitutes to appropriate styles – Enigma for experimental beers, Galaxy for NEIPAs, Citra for American IPAs, Centennial for balanced pale ales.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the closest substitute for Eclipse hops?
Galaxy provides the closest match with shared Australian heritage and similar tropical intensity. For flavor similarity emphasizing citrus, Citra offers accessible alternatives with intense grapefruit notes, though it lacks Eclipse’s specific sweet mandarin character. Amarillo approximates sweet orange-mandarin flavors better than other American varieties.
Can I use just one hop instead of Eclipse?
Yes, single-hop substitutions work well depending on your beer style. Galaxy excels in NEIPAs and tropical pale ales, Citra dominates American IPAs, and Amarillo suits balanced ales. Choose based on your desired fruit intensity and availability.
How much substitute hop should I use compared to Eclipse?
Adjust quantities based on alpha acid content. For Amarillo (10% AA) replacing Eclipse (17% AA), use approximately 1.7 times the amount for equivalent bitterness. For similar-alpha Enigma (18% AA), match weights directly. Adjust late additions based on oil content – increase quantities 10-20% for lower-oil varieties.
Do these substitutes work in lagers?
Citra, Centennial, and moderate Galaxy usage work excellently in hoppy lagers. Avoid aggressive berry-forward varieties like Enigma that can clash with clean lager character. Use restrained hopping rates (0.5-1 oz per gallon total) emphasizing late additions and light dry hopping.
When should I add these hops during brewing?
Reserve fruity hops for additions after 20 minutes, with emphasis on whirlpool (170-180°F for 20-30 minutes) and dry hopping where mandarin and citrus character shines brightest. Use dual-purpose varieties like Galaxy or Enigma throughout the boil if needed. Split additions for complexity.
Will my beer taste exactly the same with substitutes?
No substitute perfectly replicates Eclipse’s exact profile, but well-chosen alternatives create equally delicious beers with slightly different character. Expect shifts toward tropical passion fruit (Galaxy), general citrus (Citra), sweet orange (Amarillo), or berry-wine notes (Enigma) rather than Eclipse’s specific sweet mandarin combination.
Where can I buy these substitute hops?
Major online suppliers like Yakima Valley Hops, Northern Brewer, BSG Craft Brewing, and local homebrew shops stock Citra, Amarillo, and Centennial year-round. Galaxy and Enigma require Australian hop specialists or major suppliers carrying HPA varieties. Purchase during Southern Hemisphere harvest (March-April) for freshest Australian hops.
How should I store substitute hops?
Store all hops in oxygen-barrier packaging in a freezer at 0°F or below. Vacuum-sealed mylar bags provide excellent protection. Minimize temperature fluctuations by portioning into single-use amounts. Properly stored hops maintain quality for 12-18 months, though fruity varieties peak within 6-9 months for maximum mandarin and citrus aromatics.
Making Your Final Choice
Selecting the perfect Eclipse hop substitute depends on multiple factors – your beer style, availability, budget, and willingness to experiment. Galaxy offers the safest substitution for brewers seeking Australian character and tropical intensity across most beer styles, particularly NEIPAs and fruit-forward pale ales.
Citra provides accessible reliability for brewers committed to citrus-forward beers without requiring specialty Australian hops. Its wide availability, consistent quality, and intense grapefruit-lime notes make it ideal when you need dependable results without hunting rare varieties.
Amarillo brings sweet orange complexity for brewers seeking closer mandarin approximation than pure grapefruit varieties provide. While lower in alpha acids than Eclipse, Amarillo’s specific fruit profile creates more authentic mandarin-like character than other common substitutes.
Remember that great brewing comes from understanding ingredients and adapting creatively when plans change. Every substitute opens doors to new flavor combinations and recipe development opportunities. That unexpected Eclipse shortage might lead to your best beer yet.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with blends, adjust addition timing, or modify quantities based on your palate preferences. The craft brewing community continues discovering new ways to achieve desired flavors, and your next batch might reveal the perfect Eclipse substitute combination nobody else has tried.
Whether you’re crafting a mandarin-forward NEIPA, a tropical pale ale, or a citrus-enhanced lager, these substitute hops will help you create exceptional beer that captures the spirit of what makes Eclipse special while expressing their own unique personalities. Trust your ingredients, follow sound brewing practices, and embrace the creative process that makes homebrewing so rewarding.
About the Author
Ryan Brewtechis a passionate homebrewer with over a decade of experience experimenting with different beer styles and hop varieties, with particular expertise in Australian and New Zealand hop varieties. He has brewed over 350 original recipes featuring Southern Hemisphere hops and maintains close relationships with hop suppliers in Australia. Ryan holds brewing certifications and regularly contributes articles about hop selection and substitution to homebrewing forums and clubs. When not brewing, John enjoys surfing the California coast and teaching brewing workshops focused on fruit-forward beer styles. Connect with him on Instagram for weekly hop variety reviews and tropical beer brewing tips.
