Pacific GemvsProgress
Pacific Gem (bittering) and Progress (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
Progress
Alpha acid
5–7.5%
Beta acid
1.8–2.7%
Total oil
0.5–0.8 mL
United Kingdom
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
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Progress
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Black currantFloral
Only in Pacific Gem
BerryBlackberryOakPine
Only in Progress
GrassyMintSweetHoneyFruity
Property
| Property | Pacific Gem | Progress |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 13–15% | 5–7.5% |
| Beta acid | 7–9% | 1.8–2.7% |
| Co-humulone | 35–40% | 25–27% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.6 mL | 0.5–0.8 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–40% | 25–30% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 40–47% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–12% | 12–15% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | New Zealand | United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |
Belma