East Kent GoldingsvsSussex

East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Sussex (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

Sussex

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.3–5.8%

Beta acid

2.4–3.2%

Total oil

0.4–0.6 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick East Kent Goldings

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

When to pick Sussex

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • 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 Sussex

EarthyGrassyMintVanillaCitrus

Property

PropertyEast Kent GoldingsSussex
Alpha acid4–6.5%4.3–5.8%
Beta acid1.9–3.5%2.4–3.2%
Co-humulone20–32%29–32%
Total oil0.4–1 mL0.4–0.6 mL
Myrcene29–31%41–43%
Humulene38–44%22–24%
Caryophyllene12–16%-
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited Kingdom
PurposeBitteringAroma

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