VitalvsGolding

Vital (dual purpose) and Golding (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Vital

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–16%

Beta acid

6–11%

Total oil

1.1–2.5 mL

Czech Republic

Golding

Aroma

Alpha acid

4–6%

Beta acid

2–3%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United States

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 Golding

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Vital

PlumLavenderSpicyLicorice

Only in Golding

FloralDelicateSweet

Property

PropertyVitalGolding
Alpha acid9–16%4–6%
Beta acid6–11%2–3%
Co-humulone21–26%20%
Total oil1.1–2.5 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene40–60%25–35%
Humulene2–5%35–45%
Caryophyllene5–8%13–16%
Farnesene1–3%0–1%
OriginCzech RepublicUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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