CashmerevsPacific Gem

Cashmere (dual purpose) and Pacific Gem (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Cashmere

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7.7–9.1%

Beta acid

3.3–7.1%

Total oil

1.2–1.4 mL

United States

Pacific Gem

Bittering

Alpha acid

13–15%

Beta acid

7–9%

Total oil

0.8–1.6 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Cashmere

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • 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 Cashmere

FruityLemonLimePeachMelonCoconutLemongrassCandyHerbal

Only in Pacific Gem

Black currantBerryBlackberryFloralOakPine

Property

PropertyCashmerePacific Gem
Alpha acid7.7–9.1%13–15%
Beta acid3.3–7.1%7–9%
Co-humulone22–24%35–40%
Total oil1.2–1.4 mL0.8–1.6 mL
Myrcene39–42%30–40%
Humulene26–29%20–30%
Caryophyllene11–13%6–12%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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