AgnusvsEast Kent Goldings

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

Agnus

Bittering

Alpha acid

9–14%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

2–3 mL

Czech Republic

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 Agnus

  • 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

  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Lavender

Only in Agnus

LeatherTobaccoCitrusSpicy

Only in East Kent Goldings

HoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruitFloral

Property

PropertyAgnusEast Kent Goldings
Alpha acid9–14%4–6.5%
Beta acid4–6.5%1.9–3.5%
Co-humulone29–38%20–32%
Total oil2–3 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene40–55%29–31%
Humulene15–20%38–44%
Caryophyllene-12–16%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginCzech RepublicUnited Kingdom
PurposeBitteringBittering

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