East Kent GoldingsvsPekko

East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Pekko (dual purpose) 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

Pekko

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

13–16%

Beta acid

3.5–5%

Total oil

1–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick East Kent Goldings

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

When to pick Pekko

  • 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
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

LemonThymeFloral

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderHoneyOrangeGrapefruit

Only in Pekko

PleasantCitrusMintHerbalMellowPineappleCucumberSage

Property

PropertyEast Kent GoldingsPekko
Alpha acid4–6.5%13–16%
Beta acid1.9–3.5%3.5–5%
Co-humulone20–32%27–30%
Total oil0.4–1 mL1–3 mL
Myrcene29–31%20–30%
Humulene38–44%20–28%
Caryophyllene12–16%15–20%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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