OmegavsEast Kent Goldings

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

Omega

Aroma

Alpha acid

9–10%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

-

United Kingdom

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 Omega

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • 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

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Omega

-

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruitFloral

Property

PropertyOmegaEast Kent Goldings
Alpha acid9–10%4–6.5%
Beta acid3–4%1.9–3.5%
Co-humulone29%20–32%
Total oil-0.4–1 mL
Myrcene52–54%29–31%
Humulene16–18%38–44%
Caryophyllene4–6%12–16%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited Kingdom
PurposeAromaBittering

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