Pacific GemvsCitra
Pacific Gem (bittering) and Citra (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
Citra
Alpha acid
10–15%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
1.5–3 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 Citra
- 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
Floral
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBerryBlackberryOakPine
Only in Citra
CitrusGrapefruitPeachMelonLimeGooseberryPassion fruitLychee
Property
| Property | Pacific Gem | Citra |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 13–15% | 10–15% |
| Beta acid | 7–9% | 3–4.5% |
| Co-humulone | 35–40% | 20–35% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.6 mL | 1.5–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–40% | 60–70% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 7–13% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–12% | 5–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | New Zealand | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |