Pacific GemvsEast Kent Goldings
Pacific Gem and East Kent Goldings 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
East Kent Goldings
Alpha acid
4–6.5%
Beta acid
1.9–3.5%
Total oil
0.4–1 mL
United Kingdom
Key differences
When to pick Pacific Gem
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
When to pick East Kent Goldings
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBerryBlackberryOakPine
Only in East Kent Goldings
LavenderHoneyLemonThymeOrangeGrapefruit
Property
| Property | Pacific Gem | East Kent Goldings |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 13–15% | 4–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 7–9% | 1.9–3.5% |
| Co-humulone | 35–40% | 20–32% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.6 mL | 0.4–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–40% | 29–31% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 38–44% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–12% | 12–16% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | New Zealand | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Bittering | Bittering |
Belma