HerkulesvsPacific Gem
Herkules and Pacific Gem are popular bittering hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Herkules
Alpha acid
12–17%
Beta acid
4–5.5%
Total oil
1.4–2.4 mL
Germany
Pacific Gem
Alpha acid
13–15%
Beta acid
7–9%
Total oil
0.8–1.6 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick Herkules
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
When to pick Pacific Gem
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Herkules
CitrusMelon
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBerryBlackberryFloralOakPine
Property
| Property | Herkules | Pacific Gem |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–17% | 13–15% |
| Beta acid | 4–5.5% | 7–9% |
| Co-humulone | 32–38% | 35–40% |
| Total oil | 1.4–2.4 mL | 0.8–1.6 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–50% | 30–40% |
| Humulene | 30–45% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–12% | 6–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Bittering | Bittering |
Belma