East Kent GoldingsvsZenia

East Kent Goldings (bittering) and Zenia (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

Zenia

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–14%

Beta acid

4.4–5.1%

Total oil

0.7–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick East Kent Goldings

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Zenia

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Orange

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderHoneyLemonThymeGrapefruitFloral

Only in Zenia

DankResinOnionCitrusFruityPineMarmaladeGarlic

Property

PropertyEast Kent GoldingsZenia
Alpha acid4–6.5%11–14%
Beta acid1.9–3.5%4.4–5.1%
Co-humulone20–32%-
Total oil0.4–1 mL0.7–2.5 mL
Myrcene29–31%-
Humulene38–44%-
Caryophyllene12–16%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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