Pacific GemvsCascade
Pacific Gem (bittering) and Cascade (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
Cascade
Alpha acid
4.5–9%
Beta acid
4.8–7.5%
Total oil
0.7–2.5 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 Cascade
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
FloralPine
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBerryBlackberryOak
Only in Cascade
GrapefruitSpicyCitrus
Property
| Property | Pacific Gem | Cascade |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 13–15% | 4.5–9% |
| Beta acid | 7–9% | 4.8–7.5% |
| Co-humulone | 35–40% | 30–40% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.6 mL | 0.7–2.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–40% | 45–60% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 8–20% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–12% | 3–9% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 3–9% |
| Origin | New Zealand | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |