Emerald SpirevsPacific Gem
Emerald Spire (dual purpose) and Pacific Gem (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Emerald Spire
Alpha acid
8.6–13%
Beta acid
3.5–4.5%
Total oil
-
United States
Pacific Gem
Alpha acid
13–15%
Beta acid
7–9%
Total oil
0.8–1.6 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick Emerald Spire
- 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 Emerald Spire
PeachFruityWhiteGrapesWatermelonBubbleMelonHoneydew
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBerryBlackberryFloralOakPine
Property
| Property | Emerald Spire | Pacific Gem |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 8.6–13% | 13–15% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–4.5% | 7–9% |
| Co-humulone | 38–39% | 35–40% |
| Total oil | - | 0.8–1.6 mL |
| Myrcene | 36–37% | 30–40% |
| Humulene | 10–11% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–8% | 6–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |