East Kent GoldingsvsSpalter Select

East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Spalter Select (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

Spalter Select

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–6.5%

Beta acid

2.5–5%

Total oil

0.5–0.9 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick East Kent Goldings

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Spalter Select

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruitFloral

Only in Spalter Select

SpicyGrassy

Property

PropertyEast Kent GoldingsSpalter Select
Alpha acid4–6.5%3–6.5%
Beta acid1.9–3.5%2.5–5%
Co-humulone20–32%21–27%
Total oil0.4–1 mL0.5–0.9 mL
Myrcene29–31%20–40%
Humulene38–44%10–22%
Caryophyllene12–16%4–10%
Farnesene0–1%15–22%
OriginUnited KingdomGermany
PurposeBitteringAroma

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