AtlasvsEast Kent Goldings

Atlas (dual purpose) and East Kent Goldings (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Atlas

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–11%

Beta acid

4%

Total oil

1.3–1.6 mL

Slovenia

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 Atlas

  • 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
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick East Kent Goldings

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Atlas

LimePine

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruit

Property

PropertyAtlasEast Kent Goldings
Alpha acid5–11%4–6.5%
Beta acid4%1.9–3.5%
Co-humulone36–38%20–32%
Total oil1.3–1.6 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene58–59%29–31%
Humulene8–10%38–44%
Caryophyllene3–5%12–16%
Farnesene13–14%0–1%
OriginSloveniaUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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