East Kent GoldingsvsEnigma
East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Enigma (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
Enigma
Alpha acid
13.5–19.4%
Beta acid
4.5–7.1%
Total oil
1.8–3 mL
Australia
Key differences
When to pick East Kent Goldings
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Enigma
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in East Kent Goldings
LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruitFloral
Only in Enigma
TropicalBerryStone fruitRaspberryRedcurrantWhite
Property
| Property | East Kent Goldings | Enigma |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4–6.5% | 13.5–19.4% |
| Beta acid | 1.9–3.5% | 4.5–7.1% |
| Co-humulone | 20–32% | 37–43% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | 1.8–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 29–31% | 23–30% |
| Humulene | 38–44% | 12–19% |
| Caryophyllene | 12–16% | 6–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 9–12% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | Australia |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |
Golding
Hallertau Blanc
Nelson Sauvin