HBC 630vsEast Kent Goldings

HBC 630 (dual purpose) and East Kent Goldings (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

HBC 630

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

12–15%

Beta acid

5–7%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

East Kent Goldings

Bittering

Alpha acid

4–6.5%

Beta acid

1.9–3.5%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick HBC 630

  • 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

When to pick East Kent Goldings

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in HBC 630

CherryHerbalCitrusRaspberryTropicalCandyFruity

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruit

Property

PropertyHBC 630East Kent Goldings
Alpha acid12–15%4–6.5%
Beta acid5–7%1.9–3.5%
Co-humulone20–26%20–32%
Total oil1.5–3 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene40–50%29–31%
Humulene15–20%38–44%
Caryophyllene11–15%12–16%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeBittering

Related comparisons