MerkurvsEast Kent Goldings
Merkur (dual purpose) and East Kent Goldings (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Merkur
Alpha acid
12–16.2%
Beta acid
4.5–7.3%
Total oil
2–3 mL
Germany
East Kent Goldings
Alpha acid
4–6.5%
Beta acid
1.9–3.5%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Merkur
- 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
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Merkur
SugarPineappleMintCitrusEarthy
Only in East Kent Goldings
LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruitFloral
Property
| Property | Merkur | East Kent Goldings |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–16.2% | 4–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–7.3% | 1.9–3.5% |
| Co-humulone | 17–20% | 20–32% |
| Total oil | 2–3 mL | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–50% | 29–31% |
| Humulene | 28–32% | 38–44% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–10% | 12–16% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |
Golding