BoucliervsEast Kent Goldings

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

Bouclier

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.8–8.5%

Beta acid

2.4–3.3%

Total oil

1.1–1.6 mL

France

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 Bouclier

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick East Kent Goldings

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

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Bouclier

HerbalGrassySpicyCitrus

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruitFloral

Property

PropertyBouclierEast Kent Goldings
Alpha acid3.8–8.5%4–6.5%
Beta acid2.4–3.3%1.9–3.5%
Co-humulone42–47%20–32%
Total oil1.1–1.6 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene37–39%29–31%
Humulene33–35%38–44%
Caryophyllene3–4%12–16%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginFranceUnited Kingdom
PurposeAromaBittering

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