SmaragdvsEast Kent Goldings
Smaragd and East Kent Goldings are popular bittering hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Smaragd
Alpha acid
4–6%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
0.4–0.8 mL
Germany
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 Smaragd
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
When to pick East Kent Goldings
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Smaragd
FruitySpicyTobaccoAniseCloveNoble
Only in East Kent Goldings
LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruit
Property
| Property | Smaragd | East Kent Goldings |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 4–6% | 4–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–5.5% | 1.9–3.5% |
| Co-humulone | 13–18% | 20–32% |
| Total oil | 0.4–0.8 mL | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 20–40% | 29–31% |
| Humulene | 30–50% | 38–44% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–14% | 12–16% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Bittering | Bittering |
Golding