Bramling CrossvsGolding

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

Bramling Cross

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–8%

Beta acid

2.3–3.2%

Total oil

0.7–1.2 mL

United Kingdom

Golding

Aroma

Alpha acid

4–6%

Beta acid

2–3%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Bramling Cross

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • 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 Bramling Cross

Black currantLoganberryVanillaLemonSpicy

Only in Golding

FloralDelicateSweet

Property

PropertyBramling CrossGolding
Alpha acid5–8%4–6%
Beta acid2.3–3.2%2–3%
Co-humulone33–35%20%
Total oil0.7–1.2 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene35–37%25–35%
Humulene29–31%35–45%
Caryophyllene14–16%13–16%
Farnesene0–2%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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