LoralvsEast Kent Goldings

Loral (aroma) and East Kent Goldings (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Loral

Aroma

Alpha acid

10–17%

Beta acid

1.5–6.5%

Total oil

1.5–3.4 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 Loral

  • 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
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick East Kent Goldings

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Loral

Black currantCitrusDarkFruity

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruit

Property

PropertyLoralEast Kent Goldings
Alpha acid10–17%4–6.5%
Beta acid1.5–6.5%1.9–3.5%
Co-humulone20–24%20–32%
Total oil1.5–3.4 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene52–58%29–31%
Humulene17–18%38–44%
Caryophyllene5–6%12–16%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeAromaBittering

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