Melba
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
2.5–5%
Total oil
2–4 mL
Australia
Golding
Alpha acid
4–6%
Beta acid
2–3%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Melba
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
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
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Melba
Passion fruitGrapefruitCitrusSpicy
Only in Golding
FloralDelicateSweet
Property
| Property | Melba | Golding |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 7–10% | 4–6% |
| Beta acid | 2.5–5% | 2–3% |
| Co-humulone | 25–35% | 20% |
| Total oil | 2–4 mL | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | - | 25–35% |
| Humulene | - | 35–45% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 13–16% |
| Farnesene | - | 0–1% |
| Origin | Australia | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Aroma |
Fuggle
Styrian Golding