Pacific GemvsMosaic

Pacific Gem (bittering) and Mosaic (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

Mosaic

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–13.5%

Beta acid

3.2–3.9%

Total oil

1–1.5 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 Mosaic

  • 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

Pine

Only in Pacific Gem

Black currantBerryBlackberryFloralOak

Only in Mosaic

BlueberryTropicalCitrusGrassySpicyTangerinePapayaRoseEarthyBlossomBubblegumGrapefruit

Property

PropertyPacific GemMosaic
Alpha acid13–15%11.5–13.5%
Beta acid7–9%3.2–3.9%
Co-humulone35–40%24–26%
Total oil0.8–1.6 mL1–1.5 mL
Myrcene30–40%47–55%
Humulene20–30%10–16%
Caryophyllene6–12%3–8%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

Related comparisons