East Kent GoldingsvsEclipse

East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Eclipse (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

Eclipse

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

15.7–19%

Beta acid

5.9–9%

Total oil

1.8–2.7 mL

Australia

Key differences

When to pick East Kent Goldings

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

When to pick Eclipse

  • 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 Eclipse

CitrusPineMandarin

Property

PropertyEast Kent GoldingsEclipse
Alpha acid4–6.5%15.7–19%
Beta acid1.9–3.5%5.9–9%
Co-humulone20–32%33–37%
Total oil0.4–1 mL1.8–2.7 mL
Myrcene29–31%35–49%
Humulene38–44%0–2%
Caryophyllene12–16%6–12%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomAustralia
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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