Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)vsAhtanum

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

Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5.4–7.7%

Beta acid

2–3.5%

Total oil

0.8–1.2 mL

United Kingdom

Ahtanum

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.5–6.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

0.5–1.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Ahtanum

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

EarthyFloral

Only in Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)

SweetHerbal

Only in Ahtanum

CitrusGrapefruitGeraniumPineCedarLemon

Property

PropertyWhitbread Golding Variety (WGV)Ahtanum
Alpha acid5.4–7.7%3.5–6.5%
Beta acid2–3.5%4–6.5%
Co-humulone35–43%30–35%
Total oil0.8–1.2 mL0.5–1.7 mL
Myrcene19–27%45–55%
Humulene35–42%15–22%
Caryophyllene11–15%9–12%
Farnesene1–2%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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