ZulavsEast Kent Goldings

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

Zula

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8–14%

Beta acid

3.8–7%

Total oil

1.1–2 mL

Poland

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 Zula

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick East Kent Goldings

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Zula

CleanCitrusTropicalFruity

Only in East Kent Goldings

LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruitFloral

Property

PropertyZulaEast Kent Goldings
Alpha acid8–14%4–6.5%
Beta acid3.8–7%1.9–3.5%
Co-humulone30%20–32%
Total oil1.1–2 mL0.4–1 mL
Myrcene-29–31%
Humulene-38–44%
Caryophyllene-12–16%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginPolandUnited Kingdom
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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