East Kent GoldingsvsEmerald Spire
East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Emerald Spire (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
Emerald Spire
Alpha acid
8.6–13%
Beta acid
3.5–4.5%
Total oil
-
United States
Key differences
When to pick East Kent Goldings
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Emerald Spire
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- 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 Emerald Spire
PeachFruityWhiteGrapesWatermelonBubbleMelonHoneydew
Property
| Property | East Kent Goldings | Emerald Spire |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4–6.5% | 8.6–13% |
| Beta acid | 1.9–3.5% | 3.5–4.5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–32% | 38–39% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | - |
| Myrcene | 29–31% | 36–37% |
| Humulene | 38–44% | 10–11% |
| Caryophyllene | 12–16% | 7–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |