Pilgrim
Alpha acid
9–13%
Beta acid
4.2–5.5%
Total oil
1–1.8 mL
United Kingdom
Golding
Alpha acid
4–6%
Beta acid
2–3%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Pilgrim
- 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 Golding
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Pilgrim
FruitySpicyLemonGrapefruitCitrusPearBerry
Only in Golding
FloralDelicateSweet
Property
| Property | Pilgrim | Golding |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 9–13% | 4–6% |
| Beta acid | 4.2–5.5% | 2–3% |
| Co-humulone | 36–38% | 20% |
| Total oil | 1–1.8 mL | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–35% | 25–35% |
| Humulene | 21–25% | 35–45% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 13–16% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |