East Kent GoldingsvsGemini

East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Gemini (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

Gemini

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6–10.4%

Beta acid

3–4.28%

Total oil

-

United States

Key differences

When to pick East Kent Goldings

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Gemini

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruitFloral

Only in Gemini

HoneydewStrawberryEucalyptusRosemaryFruityCandyMandarinHayBlack currant

Property

PropertyEast Kent GoldingsGemini
Alpha acid4–6.5%6–10.4%
Beta acid1.9–3.5%3–4.28%
Co-humulone20–32%31–32%
Total oil0.4–1 mL-
Myrcene29–31%32–33%
Humulene38–44%11–12%
Caryophyllene12–16%4–5%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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