GoldingvsHerald

Golding (aroma) and Herald (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Golding

Aroma

Alpha acid

4–6%

Beta acid

2–3%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United States

Herald

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–13%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

1–1.9 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Golding

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Herald

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Golding

FloralDelicateSweet

Only in Herald

OrangeGrapefruitCitrusClean

Property

PropertyGoldingHerald
Alpha acid4–6%9–13%
Beta acid2–3%4.5–5.5%
Co-humulone20%35–37%
Total oil0.4–1 mL1–1.9 mL
Myrcene25–35%39–41%
Humulene35–45%14–16%
Caryophyllene13–16%6–8%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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