East Kent GoldingsvsHallertau Tradition

East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Hallertau Tradition (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

Hallertau Tradition

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.6–7%

Beta acid

3–6%

Total oil

0.5–1.9 mL

Germany

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 Hallertau Tradition

  • 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 Hallertau Tradition

EarthyGrassyNectarFruityNoble

Property

PropertyEast Kent GoldingsHallertau Tradition
Alpha acid4–6.5%4.6–7%
Beta acid1.9–3.5%3–6%
Co-humulone20–32%23–30%
Total oil0.4–1 mL0.5–1.9 mL
Myrcene29–31%17–32%
Humulene38–44%35–50%
Caryophyllene12–16%10–15%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomGermany
PurposeBitteringAroma

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