East Kent GoldingsvsStrisselspalt

East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Strisselspalt (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

Strisselspalt

Aroma

Alpha acid

1–4%

Beta acid

3–6%

Total oil

0.6–0.8 mL

France

Key differences

When to pick East Kent Goldings

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Strisselspalt

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruit

Only in Strisselspalt

SpicyCitrusHerbal

Property

PropertyEast Kent GoldingsStrisselspalt
Alpha acid4–6.5%1–4%
Beta acid1.9–3.5%3–6%
Co-humulone20–32%20–27%
Total oil0.4–1 mL0.6–0.8 mL
Myrcene29–31%35–52%
Humulene38–44%13–21%
Caryophyllene12–16%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomFrance
PurposeBitteringAroma

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