East Kent GoldingsvsHuell Melon

East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Huell Melon (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

Huell Melon

Aroma

Alpha acid

6.9–8%

Beta acid

6–8%

Total oil

0.8–1.2 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick East Kent Goldings

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Huell Melon

  • 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
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Orange

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderHoneyLemonThymeGrapefruitFloral

Only in Huell Melon

MelonStrawberryHoneydewFruitySweetVanilla

Property

PropertyEast Kent GoldingsHuell Melon
Alpha acid4–6.5%6.9–8%
Beta acid1.9–3.5%6–8%
Co-humulone20–32%25–30%
Total oil0.4–1 mL0.8–1.2 mL
Myrcene29–31%35–37%
Humulene38–44%10–20%
Caryophyllene12–16%5–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomGermany
PurposeBitteringAroma

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