PioneervsEast Kent Goldings
Pioneer (dual purpose) and East Kent Goldings (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Pioneer
Alpha acid
8–10.5%
Beta acid
3.5–4.5%
Total oil
1–1.8 mL
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 Pioneer
- 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
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
GrapefruitLemonGrapefruit
Only in Pioneer
CedarHerbalCrispClean
Only in East Kent Goldings
LavenderHoneyThymeOrangeFloral
Property
| Property | Pioneer | East Kent Goldings |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 8–10.5% | 4–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–4.5% | 1.9–3.5% |
| Co-humulone | 36–40% | 20–32% |
| Total oil | 1–1.8 mL | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 34–36% | 29–31% |
| Humulene | 18–25% | 38–44% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 12–16% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |
Golding