Pacific GemvsFuggle
Pacific Gem (bittering) and Fuggle (aroma) 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
Fuggle
Alpha acid
2.4–6.1%
Beta acid
2.1–3.5%
Total oil
0.44–1 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
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Fuggle
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBerryBlackberryFloralOakPine
Only in Fuggle
WoodyGrassyMintMild
Property
| Property | Pacific Gem | Fuggle |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 13–15% | 2.4–6.1% |
| Beta acid | 7–9% | 2.1–3.5% |
| Co-humulone | 35–40% | 25–32% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.6 mL | 0.44–1 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–40% | 15–25% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 30–40% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–12% | 11–15% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 5–8% |
| Origin | New Zealand | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |
Belma