East Kent GoldingsvsPacific Gem
East Kent Goldings and Pacific Gem are popular bittering hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
East Kent Goldings
Alpha acid
4–6.5%
Beta acid
1.9–3.5%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United Kingdom
Pacific Gem
Alpha acid
13–15%
Beta acid
7–9%
Total oil
0.8–1.6 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick East Kent Goldings
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick Pacific Gem
- 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 profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in East Kent Goldings
LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruit
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBerryBlackberryOakPine
Property
| Property | East Kent Goldings | Pacific Gem |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4–6.5% | 13–15% |
| Beta acid | 1.9–3.5% | 7–9% |
| Co-humulone | 20–32% | 35–40% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | 0.8–1.6 mL |
| Myrcene | 29–31% | 30–40% |
| Humulene | 38–44% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 12–16% | 6–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Bittering | Bittering |
Belma