HydravsPacific Gem
Hydra (dual purpose) and Pacific Gem (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Hydra
Alpha acid
10.5–13.7%
Beta acid
6.4–7.9%
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 Hydra
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Pacific Gem
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Berry
Only in Hydra
CitrusTangerineMandarinZestResinLimePeachWatermelonRoseApricotTropical
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBlackberryFloralOakPine
Property
| Property | Hydra | Pacific Gem |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 10.5–13.7% | 13–15% |
| Beta acid | 6.4–7.9% | 7–9% |
| Co-humulone | 27–28% | 35–40% |
| Total oil | - | 0.8–1.6 mL |
| Myrcene | 54–55% | 30–40% |
| Humulene | 11–12% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–9% | 6–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |