East Kent GoldingsvsSmaragd
East Kent Goldings and Smaragd 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
Smaragd
Alpha acid
4–6%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
0.4–0.8 mL
Germany
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 Smaragd
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in East Kent Goldings
LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruit
Only in Smaragd
FruitySpicyTobaccoAniseCloveNoble
Property
| Property | East Kent Goldings | Smaragd |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4–6.5% | 4–6% |
| Beta acid | 1.9–3.5% | 3.5–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–32% | 13–18% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | 0.4–0.8 mL |
| Myrcene | 29–31% | 20–40% |
| Humulene | 38–44% | 30–50% |
| Caryophyllene | 12–16% | 9–14% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | Germany |
| Purpose | Bittering | Bittering |
Golding