BelmavsGolding

Belma (dual purpose) and Golding (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Belma

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8.5–12.1%

Beta acid

4–8%

Total oil

1–2.5 mL

United States

Golding

Aroma

Alpha acid

4–6%

Beta acid

2–3%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Belma

  • 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
  • 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 Belma

OrangeMelonStrawberryPineappleGrapefruitBerryCitrusTropical

Only in Golding

FloralDelicateSweet

Property

PropertyBelmaGolding
Alpha acid8.5–12.1%4–6%
Beta acid4–8%2–3%
Co-humulone-20%
Total oil1–2.5 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene65–68%25–35%
Humulene-35–45%
Caryophyllene-13–16%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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