Pacific SunrisevsMcKenzie

Pacific Sunrise (bittering) and McKenzie (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Pacific Sunrise

Bittering

Alpha acid

12.5–14.5%

Beta acid

5–7%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

New Zealand

McKenzie

Aroma

Alpha acid

9–11%

Beta acid

8–9%

Total oil

2–3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Pacific Sunrise

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick McKenzie

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

PineLemonMelonFloral

Only in Pacific Sunrise

WoodyOrangeMango

Only in McKenzie

GrapefruitNectarineThymeStone fruitDank

Property

PropertyPacific SunriseMcKenzie
Alpha acid12.5–14.5%9–11%
Beta acid5–7%8–9%
Co-humulone27–30%-
Total oil1.5–2.5 mL2–3 mL
Myrcene45–55%-
Humulene20–24%-
Caryophyllene6–8%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeBitteringAroma

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