USDA 008vsEast Kent Goldings
USDA 008 (dual purpose) and East Kent Goldings (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
USDA 008
Alpha acid
10.1–11.1%
Beta acid
2.7–3.3%
Total oil
1.6–1.7 mL
United States
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 USDA 008
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- 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 USDA 008
CitrusSweetPeachMangoStone fruit
Only in East Kent Goldings
LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruit
Property
| Property | USDA 008 | East Kent Goldings |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 10.1–11.1% | 4–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 2.7–3.3% | 1.9–3.5% |
| Co-humulone | 25–26% | 20–32% |
| Total oil | 1.6–1.7 mL | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 6–7% | 29–31% |
| Humulene | 48–49% | 38–44% |
| Caryophyllene | 16–17% | 12–16% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |