Vic SecretvsEast Kent Goldings
Vic Secret (dual purpose) and East Kent Goldings (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Vic Secret
Alpha acid
14–21.8%
Beta acid
5.7–8.7%
Total oil
1.9–2.8 mL
Australia
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 Vic Secret
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
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 Vic Secret
TropicalPineapplePinePassion fruitHerbalEarthy
Only in East Kent Goldings
LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruitFloral
Property
| Property | Vic Secret | East Kent Goldings |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 14–21.8% | 4–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 5.7–8.7% | 1.9–3.5% |
| Co-humulone | 51–57% | 20–32% |
| Total oil | 1.9–2.8 mL | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 31–46% | 29–31% |
| Humulene | 9–21% | 38–44% |
| Caryophyllene | 9–15% | 12–16% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Australia | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |
Golding