EroicavsWhitbread Golding Variety (WGV)

Eroica (bittering) and Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV) (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Eroica

Bittering

Alpha acid

7.3–14.9%

Beta acid

3–5.3%

Total oil

0.8–1.3 mL

United States

Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5.4–7.7%

Beta acid

2–3.5%

Total oil

0.8–1.2 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Eroica

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Eroica

-

Only in Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)

EarthyFloralSweetHerbal

Property

PropertyEroicaWhitbread Golding Variety (WGV)
Alpha acid7.3–14.9%5.4–7.7%
Beta acid3–5.3%2–3.5%
Co-humulone40%35–43%
Total oil0.8–1.3 mL0.8–1.2 mL
Myrcene55–65%19–27%
Humulene0–1%35–42%
Caryophyllene7–13%11–15%
Farnesene0–1%1–2%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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