Pacific GemvsNorthdown
Pacific Gem (bittering) and Northdown (dual purpose) 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
Northdown
Alpha acid
7–10%
Beta acid
4–5.5%
Total oil
1.2–2.5 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Pacific Gem
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Northdown
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
BerryFloralPine
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBlackberryOak
Only in Northdown
CedarSpicy
Property
| Property | Pacific Gem | Northdown |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 13–15% | 7–10% |
| Beta acid | 7–9% | 4–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 35–40% | 24–32% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.6 mL | 1.2–2.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–40% | 23–29% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 40–45% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–12% | 13–17% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | New Zealand | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |
Target