Pacific GemvsTettnanger

Pacific Gem (bittering) and Tettnanger (dual purpose) 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

Tettnanger

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

2.5–5.8%

Beta acid

2.8–5.3%

Total oil

0.4–1.1 mL

Germany

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
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Tettnanger

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Black currantFloral

Only in Pacific Gem

BerryBlackberryOakPine

Only in Tettnanger

SpicyPepper

Property

PropertyPacific GemTettnanger
Alpha acid13–15%2.5–5.8%
Beta acid7–9%2.8–5.3%
Co-humulone35–40%22–28%
Total oil0.8–1.6 mL0.4–1.1 mL
Myrcene30–40%40–41%
Humulene20–30%20–21%
Caryophyllene6–12%6–7%
Farnesene0–1%11–12%
OriginNew ZealandGermany
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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