Pacific GemvsWakatu
Pacific Gem (bittering) and Wakatu (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
Wakatu
Alpha acid
6.5–8.5%
Beta acid
8–8.5%
Total oil
0.9–1.2 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick Pacific Gem
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Wakatu
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBerryBlackberryOakPine
Only in Wakatu
LimeTropicalZest
Property
| Property | Pacific Gem | Wakatu |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 13–15% | 6.5–8.5% |
| Beta acid | 7–9% | 8–8.5% |
| Co-humulone | 35–40% | 28–30% |
| Total oil | 0.8–1.6 mL | 0.9–1.2 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–40% | 35–36% |
| Humulene | 20–30% | 16–17% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–12% | 8–9% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 6–7% |
| Origin | New Zealand | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Bittering | Dual purpose |
Belma