Pacific GemvsSorachi Ace
Pacific Gem (bittering) and Sorachi Ace (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
Sorachi Ace
Alpha acid
11–16%
Beta acid
6–8%
Total oil
1–3 mL
Japan
Key differences
When to pick Pacific Gem
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Sorachi Ace
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBerryBlackberryFloralOakPine
Only in Sorachi Ace
LemonDillWoodyTobaccoCitrusHerbal
Property
| Property | Pacific Gem | Sorachi Ace |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 13–15% | 11–16% |
| Beta acid | 7–9% | 6–8% |
| Co-humulone | 35–40% | 23–28% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.6 mL | 1–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–40% | 45–55% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 20–26% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–12% | 7–11% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 2–5% |
| Origin | New Zealand | Japan |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |
Belma