Southern DawnvsEast Kent Goldings
Southern Dawn (dual purpose) and East Kent Goldings (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Southern Dawn
Alpha acid
11.2–13.5%
Beta acid
4.3–5.9%
Total oil
-
South Africa
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 Southern Dawn
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- 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
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Southern Dawn
QuinceLemongrassGingerChamomileStrawberryCitrusFruityHerbalSpicy
Only in East Kent Goldings
LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruitFloral
Property
| Property | Southern Dawn | East Kent Goldings |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 11.2–13.5% | 4–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 4.3–5.9% | 1.9–3.5% |
| Co-humulone | 31–33% | 20–32% |
| Total oil | - | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 22–45% | 29–31% |
| Humulene | 17–25% | 38–44% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–11% | 12–16% |
| Farnesene | 4–10% | 0–1% |
| Origin | South Africa | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |
Golding