Nelson SauvinvsPacific Gem
Nelson Sauvin (aroma) and Pacific Gem (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Nelson Sauvin
Alpha acid
10–13%
Beta acid
5–8%
Total oil
0.8–1.5 mL
New Zealand
Pacific Gem
Alpha acid
13–15%
Beta acid
7–9%
Total oil
0.8–1.6 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick Nelson Sauvin
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Pacific Gem
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Nelson Sauvin
WhiteFruityGooseberryGrapesSauvignon
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBerryBlackberryFloralOakPine
Property
| Property | Nelson Sauvin | Pacific Gem |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 10–13% | 13–15% |
| Beta acid | 5–8% | 7–9% |
| Co-humulone | 20–25% | 35–40% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.5 mL | 0.8–1.6 mL |
| Myrcene | 20–45% | 30–40% |
| Humulene | 25–37% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–11% | 6–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | New Zealand | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Aroma | Bittering |
Cluster
Enigma
Hallertau Blanc