East Kent GoldingsvsEpic

East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Epic (aroma) 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

Epic

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–5%

Beta acid

1.7–2.5%

Total oil

0.4–0.8 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick East Kent Goldings

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Epic

  • 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 Epic

FruityBerryHerbal

Property

PropertyEast Kent GoldingsEpic
Alpha acid4–6.5%3–5%
Beta acid1.9–3.5%1.7–2.5%
Co-humulone20–32%30–33%
Total oil0.4–1 mL0.4–0.8 mL
Myrcene29–31%11–12%
Humulene38–44%41–43%
Caryophyllene12–16%1–2%
Farnesene0–1%1–2%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited Kingdom
PurposeBitteringAroma

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