McKenzievsGolding

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

McKenzie

Aroma

Alpha acid

9–11%

Beta acid

8–9%

Total oil

2–3 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 McKenzie

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Golding

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in McKenzie

GrapefruitLemonNectarineMelonPineThymeStone fruitDank

Only in Golding

DelicateSweet

Property

PropertyMcKenzieGolding
Alpha acid9–11%4–6%
Beta acid8–9%2–3%
Co-humulone-20%
Total oil2–3 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene-25–35%
Humulene-35–45%
Caryophyllene-13–16%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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