East Kent GoldingsvsHBC 586
East Kent Goldings (bittering) and HBC 586 (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
East Kent Goldings
Alpha acid
4–6.5%
Beta acid
1.9–3.5%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United Kingdom
HBC 586
Alpha acid
18–22%
Beta acid
11–14%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick East Kent Goldings
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick HBC 586
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- 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 HBC 586
MangoLycheeCitrusHerbalGuavaSpicy
Property
| Property | East Kent Goldings | HBC 586 |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4–6.5% | 18–22% |
| Beta acid | 1.9–3.5% | 11–14% |
| Co-humulone | 20–32% | 35–40% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | 2.5–4.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 29–31% | 55–65% |
| Humulene | 38–44% | 8–12% |
| Caryophyllene | 12–16% | 8–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |