Golding
Alpha acid
4–6%
Beta acid
2–3%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United States
Rakau
Alpha acid
9–12%
Beta acid
5–6%
Total oil
1.8–2.2 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick Golding
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Rakau
- 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
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Golding
FloralDelicateSweet
Only in Rakau
Stone fruitFigFruityApricotPineResin
Property
| Property | Golding | Rakau |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4–6% | 9–12% |
| Beta acid | 2–3% | 5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 20% | 23–25% |
| Total oil | 0.4–1 mL | 1.8–2.2 mL |
| Myrcene | 25–35% | 55–57% |
| Humulene | 35–45% | 16–17% |
| Caryophyllene | 13–16% | 5–6% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 4–5% |
| Origin | United States | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |
Fuggle
Styrian Golding