Pacific GemvsStyrian Golding

Pacific Gem (bittering) and Styrian Golding (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 Golding

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.5–6.5%

Beta acid

2.5–3.5%

Total oil

0.5–1 mL

Slovenia

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 Styrian Golding

  • 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 Styrian Golding

EarthySpicyResinSweetNoble

Property

PropertyPacific GemStyrian Golding
Alpha acid13–15%3.5–6.5%
Beta acid7–9%2.5–3.5%
Co-humulone35–40%25–30%
Total oil0.8–1.6 mL0.5–1 mL
Myrcene30–40%27–33%
Humulene20–30%34–38%
Caryophyllene6–12%9–11%
Farnesene0–1%2–5%
OriginNew ZealandSlovenia
PurposeBitteringAroma

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