Pacific GemvsSouthern Dawn
Pacific Gem (bittering) and Southern Dawn (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
Southern Dawn
Alpha acid
11.2–13.5%
Beta acid
4.3–5.9%
Total oil
-
South Africa
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 Southern Dawn
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBerryBlackberryFloralOakPine
Only in Southern Dawn
QuinceLemongrassGingerChamomileStrawberryCitrusFruityHerbalSpicy
Property
| Property | Pacific Gem | Southern Dawn |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 13–15% | 11.2–13.5% |
| Beta acid | 7–9% | 4.3–5.9% |
| Co-humulone | 35–40% | 31–33% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.6 mL | - |
| Myrcene | 30–40% | 22–45% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 17–25% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–12% | 8–11% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 4–10% |
| Origin | New Zealand | South Africa |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |
Belma