OlicanavsEast Kent Goldings
Olicana (dual purpose) and East Kent Goldings (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Olicana
Alpha acid
7–9%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
-
United Kingdom
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 Olicana
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick East Kent Goldings
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
GrapefruitFloral
Only in Olicana
MangoPassion fruit
Only in East Kent Goldings
LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrange
Property
| Property | Olicana | East Kent Goldings |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 7–9% | 4–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 4–6% | 1.9–3.5% |
| Co-humulone | 28–32% | 20–32% |
| Total oil | - | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 19–20% | 29–31% |
| Humulene | 8–9% | 38–44% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 12–16% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |
Golding