Emerald SpirevsEast Kent Goldings
Emerald Spire (dual purpose) and East Kent Goldings (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Emerald Spire
Alpha acid
8.6–13%
Beta acid
3.5–4.5%
Total oil
-
United States
East Kent Goldings
Alpha acid
4–6.5%
Beta acid
1.9–3.5%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Emerald Spire
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick East Kent Goldings
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Emerald Spire
PeachFruityWhiteGrapesWatermelonBubbleMelonHoneydew
Only in East Kent Goldings
LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruitFloral
Property
| Property | Emerald Spire | East Kent Goldings |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 8.6–13% | 4–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–4.5% | 1.9–3.5% |
| Co-humulone | 38–39% | 20–32% |
| Total oil | - | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 36–37% | 29–31% |
| Humulene | 10–11% | 38–44% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–8% | 12–16% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |