AdmiralvsGolding

Admiral (bittering) and Golding (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Admiral

Bittering

Alpha acid

13–16.2%

Beta acid

4.8–6.1%

Total oil

1–1.7 mL

United Kingdom

Golding

Aroma

Alpha acid

4–6%

Beta acid

2–3%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United States

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
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Golding

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Admiral

OrangeTeaFreshPineCitrusResinHerbal

Only in Golding

FloralDelicateSweet

Property

PropertyAdmiralGolding
Alpha acid13–16.2%4–6%
Beta acid4.8–6.1%2–3%
Co-humulone37–45%20%
Total oil1–1.7 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene39–48%25–35%
Humulene23–26%35–45%
Caryophyllene6–8%13–16%
Farnesene0–2%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeBitteringAroma

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