East Kent GoldingsvsChallenger
East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Challenger (dual purpose) 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
Challenger
Alpha acid
6.5–9%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
1–1.7 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 Challenger
- 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
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in East Kent Goldings
LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruitFloral
Only in Challenger
CedarGreenFruity
Property
| Property | East Kent Goldings | Challenger |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4–6.5% | 6.5–9% |
| Beta acid | 1.9–3.5% | 3–4.5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–32% | 20–25% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | 1–1.7 mL |
| Myrcene | 29–31% | 30–42% |
| Humulene | 38–44% | 24–26% |
| Caryophyllene | 12–16% | 9–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |
Golding