PacificavsZeus

Pacifica (aroma) and Zeus (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Pacifica

Aroma

Alpha acid

5–6%

Beta acid

5–6%

Total oil

0.9–1.2 mL

New Zealand

Zeus

Bittering

Alpha acid

13–17.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

2.4–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Pacifica

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Zeus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Pacifica

CitrusOrangeFloralMarmaladeHayHoneyTangyZest

Only in Zeus

Black currantLicoriceCurryPungent

Property

PropertyPacificaZeus
Alpha acid5–6%13–17.5%
Beta acid5–6%4–6.5%
Co-humulone24–26%28–40%
Total oil0.9–1.2 mL2.4–4.5 mL
Myrcene10–15%45–60%
Humulene45–55%9–18%
Caryophyllene14–18%6–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginNew ZealandUnited States
PurposeAromaBittering

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