Pacific GemvsPetit Blanc
Pacific Gem (bittering) and Petit Blanc (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
Petit Blanc
Alpha acid
2–4%
Beta acid
5–6%
Total oil
0.5–0.8 mL
France
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
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Petit Blanc
- 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 Petit Blanc
CherryMelonPapayaGreenLilac
Property
| Property | Pacific Gem | Petit Blanc |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 13–15% | 2–4% |
| Beta acid | 7–9% | 5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 35–40% | 15% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.6 mL | 0.5–0.8 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–40% | - |
| Humulene | 20–30% | - |
| Caryophyllene | 6–12% | - |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | - |
| Origin | New Zealand | France |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |
Belma