Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)vsEast Kent Goldings
Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV) (dual purpose) and East Kent Goldings (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)
Alpha acid
5.4–7.7%
Beta acid
2–3.5%
Total oil
0.8–1.2 mL
United Kingdom
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 Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick East Kent Goldings
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)
EarthySweetHerbal
Only in East Kent Goldings
LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruit
Property
| Property | Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV) | East Kent Goldings |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.4–7.7% | 4–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 2–3.5% | 1.9–3.5% |
| Co-humulone | 35–43% | 20–32% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.2 mL | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 19–27% | 29–31% |
| Humulene | 35–42% | 38–44% |
| Caryophyllene | 11–15% | 12–16% |
| Farnesene | 1–2% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |
Golding