East Kent GoldingsvsOld Mission

East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Old Mission (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

Old Mission

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.33%

Beta acid

3.7%

Total oil

-

United States

Key differences

When to pick East Kent Goldings

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Old Mission

  • 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 Old Mission

CitrusPineSpicyHerbalBlack currantTart

Property

PropertyEast Kent GoldingsOld Mission
Alpha acid4–6.5%4.33%
Beta acid1.9–3.5%3.7%
Co-humulone20–32%-
Total oil0.4–1 mL-
Myrcene29–31%-
Humulene38–44%-
Caryophyllene12–16%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeBitteringAroma

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