PekkovsEast Kent Goldings

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

Pekko

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

13–16%

Beta acid

3.5–5%

Total oil

1–3 mL

United States

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 Pekko

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

When to pick East Kent Goldings

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralThymeLemon

Only in Pekko

PleasantCitrusMintHerbalMellowPineappleCucumberSage

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderHoneyOrangeGrapefruit

Property

PropertyPekkoEast Kent Goldings
Alpha acid13–16%4–6.5%
Beta acid3.5–5%1.9–3.5%
Co-humulone27–30%20–32%
Total oil1–3 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene20–30%29–31%
Humulene20–28%38–44%
Caryophyllene15–20%12–16%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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