Southern DawnvsPacific Gem
Southern Dawn (dual purpose) and Pacific Gem (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Southern Dawn
Alpha acid
11.2–13.5%
Beta acid
4.3–5.9%
Total oil
-
South Africa
Pacific Gem
Alpha acid
13–15%
Beta acid
7–9%
Total oil
0.8–1.6 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick Southern Dawn
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Pacific Gem
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Southern Dawn
QuinceLemongrassGingerChamomileStrawberryCitrusFruityHerbalSpicy
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBerryBlackberryFloralOakPine
Property
| Property | Southern Dawn | Pacific Gem |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 11.2–13.5% | 13–15% |
| Beta acid | 4.3–5.9% | 7–9% |
| Co-humulone | 31–33% | 35–40% |
| Total oil | - | 0.8–1.6 mL |
| Myrcene | 22–45% | 30–40% |
| Humulene | 17–25% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 8–11% | 6–12% |
| Farnesene | 4–10% | 0–1% |
| Origin | South Africa | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |
Belma