East Kent GoldingsvsRakau
East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Rakau (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
East Kent Goldings
Alpha acid
4–6.5%
Beta acid
1.9–3.5%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United Kingdom
Rakau
Alpha acid
9–12%
Beta acid
5–6%
Total oil
1.8–2.2 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick East Kent Goldings
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Rakau
- 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
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in East Kent Goldings
LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruitFloral
Only in Rakau
Stone fruitFigFruityApricotPineResin
Property
| Property | East Kent Goldings | Rakau |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4–6.5% | 9–12% |
| Beta acid | 1.9–3.5% | 5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 20–32% | 23–25% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | 1.8–2.2 mL |
| Myrcene | 29–31% | 55–57% |
| Humulene | 38–44% | 16–17% |
| Caryophyllene | 12–16% | 5–6% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 4–5% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |
Amarillo