AstravsPacific Gem
Astra (dual purpose) and Pacific Gem (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Astra
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1–3 mL
Australia
Pacific Gem
Alpha acid
13–15%
Beta acid
7–9%
Total oil
0.8–1.6 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick Astra
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Pacific Gem
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Astra
TropicalSweetPeachWhiteMelonGrassyGrapefruitHoney
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBerryBlackberryFloralOakPine
Property
| Property | Astra | Pacific Gem |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 7–10% | 13–15% |
| Beta acid | 4–6% | 7–9% |
| Co-humulone | 26–28% | 35–40% |
| Total oil | 1–3 mL | 0.8–1.6 mL |
| Myrcene | - | 30–40% |
| Humulene | 6–8% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 2–3% | 6–12% |
| Farnesene | - | 0–1% |
| Origin | Australia | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |
Belma