East Kent GoldingsvsMystic

East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Mystic (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

Mystic

Aroma

Alpha acid

4–7%

Beta acid

2–4%

Total oil

0.5–1.5 mL

UK

Key differences

When to pick East Kent Goldings

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Mystic

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • 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 Mystic

Black currantCitrusPassion fruitWoody

Property

PropertyEast Kent GoldingsMystic
Alpha acid4–6.5%4–7%
Beta acid1.9–3.5%2–4%
Co-humulone20–32%30–40%
Total oil0.4–1 mL0.5–1.5 mL
Myrcene29–31%30–40%
Humulene38–44%30–40%
Caryophyllene12–16%0%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUK
PurposeBitteringAroma

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