East Kent GoldingsvsSimcoe
East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Simcoe (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
Simcoe
Alpha acid
11–15%
Beta acid
3–5%
Total oil
0.8–3.2 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick East Kent Goldings
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Simcoe
- 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
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Grapefruit
Only in East Kent Goldings
LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeFloral
Only in Simcoe
FruityEarthyPassion fruitPineBerryApricotBubblegumCitrus
Property
| Property | East Kent Goldings | Simcoe |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4–6.5% | 11–15% |
| Beta acid | 1.9–3.5% | 3–5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–32% | 15–21% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | 0.8–3.2 mL |
| Myrcene | 29–31% | 40–50% |
| Humulene | 38–44% | 15–20% |
| Caryophyllene | 12–16% | 8–14% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |