Bitter GoldvsEast Kent Goldings
Bitter Gold (dual purpose) and East Kent Goldings (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Bitter Gold
Alpha acid
12–18.8%
Beta acid
4.5–8%
Total oil
0.8–3.9 mL
United States
East Kent Goldings
Alpha acid
4–6.5%
Beta acid
1.9–3.5%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Bitter Gold
- 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
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
GrapefruitFloral
Only in Bitter Gold
Stone fruitTropicalPearWatermelonGrassy
Only in East Kent Goldings
LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrange
Property
| Property | Bitter Gold | East Kent Goldings |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–18.8% | 4–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–8% | 1.9–3.5% |
| Co-humulone | 36–41% | 20–32% |
| Total oil | 0.8–3.9 mL | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–68% | 29–31% |
| Humulene | 7–18% | 38–44% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–11% | 12–16% |
| Farnesene | 0–2% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |