ZappavsGolding

Zappa and Golding are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Zappa

Aroma

Alpha acid

6–9%

Beta acid

8–9%

Total oil

1.8–2.5 mL

United States

Golding

Aroma

Alpha acid

4–6%

Beta acid

2–3%

Total oil

0.4–1 mL

United States

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
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Golding

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Zappa

MintSavoryFruityMangoPassion fruitTropicalCitrusPineSpicyFresh

Only in Golding

FloralDelicateSweet

Property

PropertyZappaGolding
Alpha acid6–9%4–6%
Beta acid8–9%2–3%
Co-humulone40–45%20%
Total oil1.8–2.5 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene64–65%25–35%
Humulene4–5%35–45%
Caryophyllene8–9%13–16%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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