EnigmavsGolding

Enigma and Golding are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Enigma

Aroma

Alpha acid

13.5–19.4%

Beta acid

4.5–7.1%

Total oil

1.8–3 mL

Australia

Golding

Aroma

Alpha acid

4–6%

Beta acid

2–3%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Enigma

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

When to pick Golding

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Enigma

TropicalBerryStone fruitRaspberryRedcurrantWhite

Only in Golding

FloralDelicateSweet

Property

PropertyEnigmaGolding
Alpha acid13.5–19.4%4–6%
Beta acid4.5–7.1%2–3%
Co-humulone37–43%20%
Total oil1.8–3 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene23–30%25–35%
Humulene12–19%35–45%
Caryophyllene6–8%13–16%
Farnesene9–12%0–1%
OriginAustraliaUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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