EpicvsPacific Gem
Epic (aroma) and Pacific Gem (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Epic
Alpha acid
3–5%
Beta acid
1.7–2.5%
Total oil
0.4–0.8 mL
United Kingdom
Pacific Gem
Alpha acid
13–15%
Beta acid
7–9%
Total oil
0.8–1.6 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick Epic
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Pacific Gem
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Berry
Only in Epic
FruityHerbal
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBlackberryFloralOakPine
Property
| Property | Epic | Pacific Gem |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 3–5% | 13–15% |
| Beta acid | 1.7–2.5% | 7–9% |
| Co-humulone | 30–33% | 35–40% |
| Total oil | 0.4–0.8 mL | 0.8–1.6 mL |
| Myrcene | 11–12% | 30–40% |
| Humulene | 41–43% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 1–2% | 6–12% |
| Farnesene | 1–2% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Aroma | Bittering |
Belma