Southern PromisevsEast Kent Goldings
Southern Promise (dual purpose) and East Kent Goldings (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Southern Promise
Alpha acid
9.5–14.5%
Beta acid
3.6–5.8%
Total oil
0.7–1.1 mL
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 Promise
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
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
Floral
Only in Southern Promise
HerbalFruityWoodyBerryCitrus
Only in East Kent Goldings
LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruit
Property
| Property | Southern Promise | East Kent Goldings |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 9.5–14.5% | 4–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 3.6–5.8% | 1.9–3.5% |
| Co-humulone | 20–22% | 20–32% |
| Total oil | 0.7–1.1 mL | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 21–25% | 29–31% |
| Humulene | 23–27% | 38–44% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–11% | 12–16% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | South Africa | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |