SussexvsEast Kent Goldings

Sussex (aroma) and East Kent Goldings (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Sussex

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.3–5.8%

Beta acid

2.4–3.2%

Total oil

0.4–0.6 mL

United Kingdom

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 Sussex

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick East Kent Goldings

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Sussex

EarthyGrassyMintVanillaCitrus

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruitFloral

Property

PropertySussexEast Kent Goldings
Alpha acid4.3–5.8%4–6.5%
Beta acid2.4–3.2%1.9–3.5%
Co-humulone29–32%20–32%
Total oil0.4–0.6 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene41–43%29–31%
Humulene22–24%38–44%
Caryophyllene-12–16%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited Kingdom
PurposeAromaBittering

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