Pacific GemvsHallertau Blanc

Pacific Gem (bittering) and Hallertau Blanc (aroma) 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

Hallertau Blanc

Aroma

Alpha acid

9–12%

Beta acid

4–7%

Total oil

0.8–2.2 mL

Germany

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 Hallertau Blanc

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Pacific Gem

Black currantBerryBlackberryFloralOakPine

Only in Hallertau Blanc

PineappleGooseberryWhiteGrapesLemongrassPassion fruitCleanSauvignon

Property

PropertyPacific GemHallertau Blanc
Alpha acid13–15%9–12%
Beta acid7–9%4–7%
Co-humulone35–40%22–35%
Total oil0.8–1.6 mL0.8–2.2 mL
Myrcene30–40%50–75%
Humulene20–30%0–3%
Caryophyllene6–12%0–2%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginNew ZealandGermany
PurposeBitteringAroma

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