Pacific GemvsGlacier

Pacific Gem (bittering) and Glacier (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Pacific Gem

Bittering

Alpha acid

13–15%

Beta acid

7–9%

Total oil

0.8–1.6 mL

New Zealand

Glacier

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

3.3–9.7%

Beta acid

5.4–10%

Total oil

0.5–1.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Pacific Gem

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Glacier

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Blackberry

Only in Pacific Gem

Black currantBerryFloralOakPine

Only in Glacier

PlumWoodyCedar

Property

PropertyPacific GemGlacier
Alpha acid13–15%3.3–9.7%
Beta acid7–9%5.4–10%
Co-humulone35–40%11–16%
Total oil0.8–1.6 mL0.5–1.5 mL
Myrcene30–40%35–45%
Humulene20–30%25–35%
Caryophyllene6–12%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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