EpicvsEast Kent Goldings

Epic (aroma) and East Kent Goldings (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Epic

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–5%

Beta acid

1.7–2.5%

Total oil

0.4–0.8 mL

United Kingdom

East Kent Goldings

Bittering

Alpha acid

4–6.5%

Beta acid

1.9–3.5%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Epic

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick East Kent Goldings

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Epic

FruityBerryHerbal

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruitFloral

Property

PropertyEpicEast Kent Goldings
Alpha acid3–5%4–6.5%
Beta acid1.7–2.5%1.9–3.5%
Co-humulone30–33%20–32%
Total oil0.4–0.8 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene11–12%29–31%
Humulene41–43%38–44%
Caryophyllene1–2%12–16%
Farnesene1–2%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited Kingdom
PurposeAromaBittering

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