VitalvsEast Kent Goldings
Vital (dual purpose) and East Kent Goldings (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Vital
Alpha acid
9–16%
Beta acid
6–11%
Total oil
1.1–2.5 mL
Czech Republic
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 Vital
- 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
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Lavender
Only in Vital
PlumSpicyLicorice
Only in East Kent Goldings
HoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruitFloral
Property
| Property | Vital | East Kent Goldings |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 9–16% | 4–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 6–11% | 1.9–3.5% |
| Co-humulone | 21–26% | 20–32% |
| Total oil | 1.1–2.5 mL | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 40–60% | 29–31% |
| Humulene | 2–5% | 38–44% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–8% | 12–16% |
| Farnesene | 1–3% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Czech Republic | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |
Golding