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​Hops Spotlight: The Golden Touch of UK Kent Goldings Hop Pellets

​Hops Spotlight: The Golden Touch of UK Kent Goldings Hop Pellets

Posted by Matteo Lahm on 18th Jan 2024

UK Kent Goldings Hop Pellets are the granddaddy of English hops, the golden child of the brewing world. They've been around since 1790, which means they've seen more beer than a fraternity house during homecoming weekend. These hops are as traditional as fish and chips, and they're grown in the heart of Kent. If they're grown elsewhere, they're just called 'Goldings', kind of like how champagne can only be called champagne if it's from Champagne, France.

The flavor profile of these hops are like the quiet, reserved guest at a party who, once you get to know them, turn out to be the life of the party. They've got a very slight aroma that's flowery and pleasant. It's like walking through an English garden after a light rain, if that garden was made of beer.

These hops are primarily used in all English style ales and Belgian ales. But hey, don't let tradition box you in. Feel free to use your imagination! Want to try them in a lager? Go for it! Fancy an IPA with a twist? Why not? The world is your beer garden.

Now, let's get technical. The alpha acid content of UK Kent Goldings hops is between 4 and 5.5%, while the beta acid content is between 2 and 3.5%. For those of you who aren't beer nerds, alpha acids are what give beer its bitterness, while beta acids contribute to the beer's aroma. So, in the case of UK Kent Goldings, you're getting a hop that's a bit more on the mild side in terms of bitterness, but with a delightful aroma.

The cohumulone content, which is another component of bitterness, is between 20 and 25%. This means that the bitterness of the beer will be more smooth and less harsh. It's like the difference between a gentle nudge and a swift kick in the pants.

If you are wondering how do you use these hop pellets in the brewing process, let's dive in.

UK Kent Goldings are typically used as a dry hop or finishing hop. This means they're added towards the end of the brewing process to enhance the beer's aroma and flavor. It's like adding a dash of salt to your meal just before serving it.

When using these hops in the mash process, it's important to remember that they're more about aroma and flavor than bitterness. So, you'll want to add them towards the end of the boil, or even after the boil, to really let those delightful floral notes shine.

Remember, brewing is as much an art as it is a science. So, don't be afraid to experiment and find the perfect balance for your brew.

In conclusion, UK Kent Goldings Hop Pellets are like the Sean Connery of hops. They're classic, they're sophisticated, and they've got a delightful English accent. So, whether you're a home brewer looking to experiment or a seasoned pro, give these hops a try. You might just find that they're the golden touch your beer has been missing.

So, go forth and brew, my friends. And remember, in the immortal words of a wise man, "Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy." Cheers!


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