East Kent GoldingsvsFuggle

East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Fuggle (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

Fuggle

Aroma

Alpha acid

2.4–6.1%

Beta acid

2.1–3.5%

Total oil

0.44–1 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 Fuggle

  • 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 Fuggle

WoodyGrassyMintMild

Property

PropertyEast Kent GoldingsFuggle
Alpha acid4–6.5%2.4–6.1%
Beta acid1.9–3.5%2.1–3.5%
Co-humulone20–32%25–32%
Total oil0.4–1 mL0.44–1 mL
Myrcene29–31%15–25%
Humulene38–44%30–40%
Caryophyllene12–16%11–15%
Farnesene0–1%5–8%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited Kingdom
PurposeBitteringAroma

Related comparisons