Pacific GemvsBelma
Pacific Gem (bittering) and Belma (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Pacific Gem
Alpha acid
13–15%
Beta acid
7–9%
Total oil
0.8–1.6 mL
New Zealand
Belma
Alpha acid
8.5–12.1%
Beta acid
4–8%
Total oil
1–2.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Pacific Gem
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Belma
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Berry
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBlackberryFloralOakPine
Only in Belma
OrangeMelonStrawberryPineappleGrapefruitCitrusTropical
Property
| Property | Pacific Gem | Belma |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 13–15% | 8.5–12.1% |
| Beta acid | 7–9% | 4–8% |
| Co-humulone | 35–40% | - |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.6 mL | 1–2.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–40% | 65–68% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | - |
| Caryophyllene | 6–12% | - |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | - |
| Origin | New Zealand | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |
Huell Melon