East Kent GoldingsvsFlyer

East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Flyer (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

Flyer

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8.3–14.5%

Beta acid

4.1–6%

Total oil

-

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick East Kent Goldings

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

When to pick Flyer

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • 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 Flyer

SpicyCitrusLicoriceResinCaramel

Property

PropertyEast Kent GoldingsFlyer
Alpha acid4–6.5%8.3–14.5%
Beta acid1.9–3.5%4.1–6%
Co-humulone20–32%26–35%
Total oil0.4–1 mL-
Myrcene29–31%17–25%
Humulene38–44%22–23%
Caryophyllene12–16%0–1%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited Kingdom
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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