East Kent GoldingsvsPacifica

East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Pacifica (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

Pacifica

Aroma

Alpha acid

5–6%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

0.9–1.2 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick East Kent Goldings

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Pacifica

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

HoneyOrangeFloral

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderLemonThymeGrapefruit

Only in Pacifica

CitrusMarmaladeHayTangyZest

Property

PropertyEast Kent GoldingsPacifica
Alpha acid4–6.5%5–6%
Beta acid1.9–3.5%5–6%
Co-humulone20–32%24–26%
Total oil0.4–1 mL0.9–1.2 mL
Myrcene29–31%10–15%
Humulene38–44%45–55%
Caryophyllene12–16%14–18%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomNew Zealand
PurposeBitteringAroma

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