Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)vsAmarillo

Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV) (dual purpose) and Amarillo (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

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Amarillo

  • 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
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)

EarthySweetHerbal

Only in Amarillo

SpicyTropicalCitrusOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Property

PropertyWhitbread Golding Variety (WGV)Amarillo
Alpha acid5.4–7.7%7–11%
Beta acid2–3.5%5.5–8%
Co-humulone35–43%21–24%
Total oil0.8–1.2 mL1–2.3 mL
Myrcene19–27%40–70%
Humulene35–42%19–24%
Caryophyllene11–15%7–10%
Farnesene1–2%6–9%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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