Golding
Alpha acid
4–6%
Beta acid
2–3%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United States
Pilgrim
Alpha acid
9–13%
Beta acid
4.2–5.5%
Total oil
1–1.8 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Golding
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Pilgrim
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- 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 Golding
FloralDelicateSweet
Only in Pilgrim
FruitySpicyLemonGrapefruitCitrusPearBerry
Property
| Property | Golding | Pilgrim |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4–6% | 9–13% |
| Beta acid | 2–3% | 4.2–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 20% | 36–38% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | 1–1.8 mL |
| Myrcene | 25–35% | 30–35% |
| Humulene | 35–45% | 21–25% |
| Caryophyllene | 13–16% | - |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |