East Kent GoldingsvsBramling Cross

East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Bramling Cross (dual purpose) 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

Bramling Cross

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5–8%

Beta acid

2.3–3.2%

Total oil

0.7–1.2 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick East Kent Goldings

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Bramling Cross

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Lemon

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderHoneyThymeOrangeGrapefruitFloral

Only in Bramling Cross

Black currantLoganberryVanillaSpicy

Property

PropertyEast Kent GoldingsBramling Cross
Alpha acid4–6.5%5–8%
Beta acid1.9–3.5%2.3–3.2%
Co-humulone20–32%33–35%
Total oil0.4–1 mL0.7–1.2 mL
Myrcene29–31%35–37%
Humulene38–44%29–31%
Caryophyllene12–16%14–16%
Farnesene0–1%0–2%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited Kingdom
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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