Pacific GemvsTrident
Pacific Gem (bittering) and Trident (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
Trident
Alpha acid
11–14%
Beta acid
4–5%
Total oil
1.5–3 mL
United States
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
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Trident
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- 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 Trident
FruityCitrusTropicalPassion fruit
Property
| Property | Pacific Gem | Trident |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 13–15% | 11–14% |
| Beta acid | 7–9% | 4–5% |
| Co-humulone | 35–40% | 20–30% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.6 mL | 1.5–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–40% | - |
| Humulene | 20–30% | - |
| Caryophyllene | 6–12% | - |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | - |
| Origin | New Zealand | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |