East Kent GoldingsvsNorthdown
East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Northdown (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
Northdown
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
4–5.5%
Total oil
1.2–2.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick East Kent Goldings
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Northdown
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in East Kent Goldings
LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruit
Only in Northdown
PineCedarBerrySpicy
Property
| Property | East Kent Goldings | Northdown |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4–6.5% | 7–10% |
| Beta acid | 1.9–3.5% | 4–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–32% | 24–32% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | 1.2–2.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 29–31% | 23–29% |
| Humulene | 38–44% | 40–45% |
| Caryophyllene | 12–16% | 13–17% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |