NorthdownvsPacific Gem
Northdown (dual purpose) and Pacific Gem (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Northdown
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
4–5.5%
Total oil
1.2–2.5 mL
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 Northdown
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
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
FloralPineBerry
Only in Northdown
CedarSpicy
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBlackberryOak
Property
| Property | Northdown | Pacific Gem |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 7–10% | 13–15% |
| Beta acid | 4–5.5% | 7–9% |
| Co-humulone | 24–32% | 35–40% |
| Total oil | 1.2–2.5 mL | 0.8–1.6 mL |
| Myrcene | 23–29% | 30–40% |
| Humulene | 40–45% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 13–17% | 6–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |
Admiral