WillamettevsEast Kent Goldings

Willamette (dual purpose) and East Kent Goldings (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Willamette

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

4–7.2%

Beta acid

3–4.5%

Total oil

0.6–1.6 mL

United States

East Kent Goldings

Bittering

Alpha acid

4–6.5%

Beta acid

1.9–3.5%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Willamette

  • 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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Willamette

CitrusIncenseElderberryCaramelCurry

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruit

Property

PropertyWillametteEast Kent Goldings
Alpha acid4–7.2%4–6.5%
Beta acid3–4.5%1.9–3.5%
Co-humulone28–35%20–32%
Total oil0.6–1.6 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene30–40%29–31%
Humulene20–27%38–44%
Caryophyllene7–8%12–16%
Farnesene5–6%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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