LambicvsGolding

Lambic and Golding are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Lambic

Aroma

Alpha acid

1–2%

Beta acid

2.8–5%

Total oil

0.8–1.2 mL

United States

Golding

Aroma

Alpha acid

4–6%

Beta acid

2–3%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Lambic

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

When to pick Golding

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Lambic

GrassySpicyWoody

Only in Golding

FloralDelicateSweet

Property

PropertyLambicGolding
Alpha acid1–2%4–6%
Beta acid2.8–5%2–3%
Co-humulone29–35%20%
Total oil0.8–1.2 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene-25–35%
Humulene-35–45%
Caryophyllene-13–16%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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