East Kent GoldingsvsAmarillo

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

East Kent Goldings

Bittering

Alpha acid

4–6.5%

Beta acid

1.9–3.5%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United Kingdom

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick East Kent Goldings

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Amarillo

  • 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
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

LemonOrangeGrapefruitFloral

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderHoneyThyme

Only in Amarillo

SpicyTropicalCitrusMelonApricotPeachDank

Property

PropertyEast Kent GoldingsAmarillo
Alpha acid4–6.5%7–11%
Beta acid1.9–3.5%5.5–8%
Co-humulone20–32%21–24%
Total oil0.4–1 mL1–2.3 mL
Myrcene29–31%40–70%
Humulene38–44%19–24%
Caryophyllene12–16%7–10%
Farnesene0–1%6–9%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeBitteringAroma

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