First GoldvsEast Kent Goldings
First Gold (dual purpose) and East Kent Goldings (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
First Gold
Alpha acid
5.6–10%
Beta acid
2.3–4.1%
Total oil
0.7–1.5 mL
United Kingdom
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 First Gold
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick East Kent Goldings
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
OrangeFloral
Only in First Gold
TangerineApricotMagnoliaRedberryHerbalHerbalSpicy
Only in East Kent Goldings
LavenderHoneyLemonThymeGrapefruit
Property
| Property | First Gold | East Kent Goldings |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.6–10% | 4–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 2.3–4.1% | 1.9–3.5% |
| Co-humulone | 29–35% | 20–32% |
| Total oil | 0.7–1.5 mL | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 24–28% | 29–31% |
| Humulene | 20–24% | 38–44% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–7% | 12–16% |
| Farnesene | 2–4% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |
Golding