East Kent GoldingsvsOmega

East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Omega (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

Omega

Aroma

Alpha acid

9–10%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

-

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick East Kent Goldings

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

When to pick Omega

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • 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 Omega

-

Property

PropertyEast Kent GoldingsOmega
Alpha acid4–6.5%9–10%
Beta acid1.9–3.5%3–4%
Co-humulone20–32%29%
Total oil0.4–1 mL-
Myrcene29–31%52–54%
Humulene38–44%16–18%
Caryophyllene12–16%4–6%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited Kingdom
PurposeBitteringAroma

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