HersbruckervsPacific Gem
Hersbrucker (aroma) and Pacific Gem (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Hersbrucker
Alpha acid
1.5–5%
Beta acid
2.5–6%
Total oil
0.5–1.3 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 Hersbrucker
- 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
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Hersbrucker
NobleHayOrangeTobacco
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBerryBlackberryFloralOakPine
Property
| Property | Hersbrucker | Pacific Gem |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 1.5–5% | 13–15% |
| Beta acid | 2.5–6% | 7–9% |
| Co-humulone | 17–25% | 35–40% |
| Total oil | 0.5–1.3 mL | 0.8–1.6 mL |
| Myrcene | 15–30% | 30–40% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–13% | 6–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Aroma | Bittering |
Cluster