ZappavsEast Kent Goldings
Zappa (aroma) and East Kent Goldings (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Zappa
Alpha acid
6–9%
Beta acid
8–9%
Total oil
1.8–2.5 mL
United States
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 Zappa
- 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
When to pick East Kent Goldings
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Zappa
MintSavoryFruityMangoPassion fruitTropicalCitrusPineSpicyFresh
Only in East Kent Goldings
LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruitFloral
Property
| Property | Zappa | East Kent Goldings |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 6–9% | 4–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 8–9% | 1.9–3.5% |
| Co-humulone | 40–45% | 20–32% |
| Total oil | 1.8–2.5 mL | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 64–65% | 29–31% |
| Humulene | 4–5% | 38–44% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–9% | 12–16% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Aroma | Bittering |