Pacific GemvsStyrian Dragon

Pacific Gem (bittering) and Styrian Dragon (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Pacific Gem

Bittering

Alpha acid

13–15%

Beta acid

7–9%

Total oil

0.8–1.6 mL

New Zealand

Styrian Dragon

Aroma

Alpha acid

6–11%

Beta acid

7.5–8.5%

Total oil

1.5–2.1 mL

Slovenia

Key differences

When to pick Pacific Gem

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Styrian Dragon

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

BerryFloral

Only in Pacific Gem

Black currantBlackberryOakPine

Only in Styrian Dragon

CitrusGrapefruitLemonRoseTropical

Property

PropertyPacific GemStyrian Dragon
Alpha acid13–15%6–11%
Beta acid7–9%7.5–8.5%
Co-humulone35–40%23–24%
Total oil0.8–1.6 mL1.5–2.1 mL
Myrcene30–40%58–63%
Humulene20–30%22–33%
Caryophyllene6–12%12–16%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginNew ZealandSlovenia
PurposeBitteringAroma

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