East Kent GoldingsvsHelga
East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Helga (aroma) 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
Helga
Alpha acid
5.4–7.3%
Beta acid
5–7%
Total oil
0.6–1 mL
Australia
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 Helga
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- 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 Helga
Noble
Property
| Property | East Kent Goldings | Helga |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4–6.5% | 5.4–7.3% |
| Beta acid | 1.9–3.5% | 5–7% |
| Co-humulone | 20–32% | 20–23% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | 0.6–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 29–31% | 1–13% |
| Humulene | 38–44% | 35–55% |
| Caryophyllene | 12–16% | 10–45% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | Australia |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |
Golding