Pacific GemvsUltra
Pacific Gem (bittering) and Ultra (aroma) 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
Ultra
Alpha acid
3–9.7%
Beta acid
3.6–5%
Total oil
0.8–1.5 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 Ultra
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBerryBlackberryOakPine
Only in Ultra
MildPleasant
Property
| Property | Pacific Gem | Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 13–15% | 3–9.7% |
| Beta acid | 7–9% | 3.6–5% |
| Co-humulone | 35–40% | 25–35% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.6 mL | 0.8–1.5 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–40% | 50–60% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 10–15% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–12% | 6–9% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | New Zealand | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |