AdmiralvsEast Kent Goldings

Admiral and East Kent Goldings are popular bittering hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Admiral

Bittering

Alpha acid

13–16.2%

Beta acid

4.8–6.1%

Total oil

1–1.7 mL

United Kingdom

East Kent Goldings

Bittering

Alpha acid

4–6.5%

Beta acid

1.9–3.5%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Admiral

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

When to pick East Kent Goldings

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Orange

Only in Admiral

TeaFreshPineCitrusResinHerbal

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderHoneyLemonThymeGrapefruitFloral

Property

PropertyAdmiralEast Kent Goldings
Alpha acid13–16.2%4–6.5%
Beta acid4.8–6.1%1.9–3.5%
Co-humulone37–45%20–32%
Total oil1–1.7 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene39–48%29–31%
Humulene23–26%38–44%
Caryophyllene6–8%12–16%
Farnesene0–2%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited Kingdom
PurposeBitteringBittering

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