East Kent GoldingsvsBarbe Rouge
East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Barbe Rouge (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
East Kent Goldings
Alpha acid
4–6.5%
Beta acid
1.9–3.5%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United Kingdom
Barbe Rouge
Alpha acid
3.8–10%
Beta acid
3.3–4.6%
Total oil
1.1–3 mL
France
Key differences
When to pick East Kent Goldings
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Barbe Rouge
- 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
OrangeFloral
Only in East Kent Goldings
LavenderHoneyLemonThymeGrapefruit
Only in Barbe Rouge
CitrusKumquatLimeRedcurrantStrawberryRaspberryBerryHerbal
Property
| Property | East Kent Goldings | Barbe Rouge |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4–6.5% | 3.8–10% |
| Beta acid | 1.9–3.5% | 3.3–4.6% |
| Co-humulone | 20–32% | 24–28% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | 1.1–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 29–31% | 35–60% |
| Humulene | 38–44% | 15–25% |
| Caryophyllene | 12–16% | 2–4% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–4% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | France |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |
Golding