Pacific GemvsChelan
Pacific Gem and Chelan are popular bittering hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Pacific Gem
Alpha acid
13–15%
Beta acid
7–9%
Total oil
0.8–1.6 mL
New Zealand
Chelan
Alpha acid
12–15%
Beta acid
8.5–10%
Total oil
1.5–1.9 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Pacific Gem
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Chelan
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBerryBlackberryOakPine
Only in Chelan
CitrusFruityMild
Property
| Property | Pacific Gem | Chelan |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 13–15% | 12–15% |
| Beta acid | 7–9% | 8.5–10% |
| Co-humulone | 35–40% | 33–35% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.6 mL | 1.5–1.9 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–40% | 45–55% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 12–15% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–12% | 9–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | New Zealand | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Bittering |