East Kent GoldingsvsSovereign

East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Sovereign (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

Sovereign

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.5–6.5%

Beta acid

2.1–3.1%

Total oil

0.6–1 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick East Kent Goldings

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Sovereign

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruit

Only in Sovereign

MintFruityGrassyHerbalPear

Property

PropertyEast Kent GoldingsSovereign
Alpha acid4–6.5%4.5–6.5%
Beta acid1.9–3.5%2.1–3.1%
Co-humulone20–32%26–30%
Total oil0.4–1 mL0.6–1 mL
Myrcene29–31%20–31%
Humulene38–44%20–27%
Caryophyllene12–16%7–9%
Farnesene0–1%3–4%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited Kingdom
PurposeBitteringAroma

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