Brewer's Gold (GR)vsGolding

Brewer's Gold (GR) (bittering) and Golding (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Brewer's Gold (GR)

Bittering

Alpha acid

4.5–7.8%

Beta acid

2.9–3.7%

Total oil

0.8–2.2 mL

Germany

Golding

Aroma

Alpha acid

4–6%

Beta acid

2–3%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Brewer's Gold (GR)

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Golding

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Brewer's Gold (GR)

Black currantSpicy

Only in Golding

FloralDelicateSweet

Property

PropertyBrewer's Gold (GR)Golding
Alpha acid4.5–7.8%4–6%
Beta acid2.9–3.7%2–3%
Co-humulone39–48%20%
Total oil0.8–2.2 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene40–50%25–35%
Humulene29–31%35–45%
Caryophyllene7–8%13–16%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeBitteringAroma

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