First GoldvsPacific Gem
First Gold (dual purpose) and Pacific Gem (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
First Gold
Alpha acid
5.6–10%
Beta acid
2.3–4.1%
Total oil
0.7–1.5 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 First Gold
- 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
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in First Gold
TangerineApricotMagnoliaRedberryHerbalOrangeHerbalSpicy
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBerryBlackberryOakPine
Property
| Property | First Gold | Pacific Gem |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 5.6–10% | 13–15% |
| Beta acid | 2.3–4.1% | 7–9% |
| Co-humulone | 29–35% | 35–40% |
| Total oil | 0.7–1.5 mL | 0.8–1.6 mL |
| Myrcene | 24–28% | 30–40% |
| Humulene | 20–24% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–7% | 6–12% |
| Farnesene | 2–4% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |
Belma