GoldingvsVic Secret

Golding (aroma) and Vic Secret (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

Vic Secret

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14–21.8%

Beta acid

5.7–8.7%

Total oil

1.9–2.8 mL

Australia

Key differences

When to pick Golding

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Vic Secret

  • 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 Vic Secret

TropicalPineapplePinePassion fruitHerbalEarthy

Property

PropertyGoldingVic Secret
Alpha acid4–6%14–21.8%
Beta acid2–3%5.7–8.7%
Co-humulone20%51–57%
Total oil0.4–1 mL1.9–2.8 mL
Myrcene25–35%31–46%
Humulene35–45%9–21%
Caryophyllene13–16%9–15%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesAustralia
PurposeAromaDual purpose

Related comparisons