Golding
Alpha acid
4–6%
Beta acid
2–3%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United States
Melba
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
2.5–5%
Total oil
2–4 mL
Australia
Key differences
When to pick Golding
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
When to pick Melba
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Golding
FloralDelicateSweet
Only in Melba
Passion fruitGrapefruitCitrusSpicy
Property
| Property | Golding | Melba |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4–6% | 7–10% |
| Beta acid | 2–3% | 2.5–5% |
| Co-humulone | 20% | 25–35% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | 2–4 mL |
| Myrcene | 25–35% | - |
| Humulene | 35–45% | - |
| Caryophyllene | 13–16% | - |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | - |
| Origin | United States | Australia |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |
Fuggle
Styrian Golding