ColumbiavsGolding

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

Columbia

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–9%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2 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 Columbia

  • 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 Columbia

PineappleLemonCitrusNoblePungent

Only in Golding

FloralDelicateSweet

Property

PropertyColumbiaGolding
Alpha acid5–9%4–6%
Beta acid3–4%2–3%
Co-humulone40%20%
Total oil1–2 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene45–55%25–35%
Humulene15–19%35–45%
Caryophyllene9–12%13–16%
Farnesene3–5%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

Related comparisons