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

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9.5–14.5%

Beta acid

3.6–5.8%

Total oil

0.7–1.1 mL

South Africa

East Kent Goldings

Bittering

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

PropertySouthern PromiseEast Kent Goldings
Alpha acid9.5–14.5%4–6.5%
Beta acid3.6–5.8%1.9–3.5%
Co-humulone20–22%20–32%
Total oil0.7–1.1 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene21–25%29–31%
Humulene23–27%38–44%
Caryophyllene7–11%12–16%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginSouth AfricaUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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