East Kent GoldingsvsWild Wolf

East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Wild Wolf (dual purpose) 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

Wild Wolf

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8.25%

Beta acid

5.88%

Total oil

-

United States

Key differences

When to pick East Kent Goldings

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

When to pick Wild Wolf

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruitFloral

Only in Wild Wolf

FruityHerbalEarthy

Property

PropertyEast Kent GoldingsWild Wolf
Alpha acid4–6.5%8.25%
Beta acid1.9–3.5%5.88%
Co-humulone20–32%-
Total oil0.4–1 mL-
Myrcene29–31%-
Humulene38–44%-
Caryophyllene12–16%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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