Spalter SelectvsPacific Gem

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

Spalter Select

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–6.5%

Beta acid

2.5–5%

Total oil

0.5–0.9 mL

Germany

Pacific Gem

Bittering

Alpha acid

13–15%

Beta acid

7–9%

Total oil

0.8–1.6 mL

New Zealand

Key differences

When to pick Spalter Select

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Pacific Gem

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Spalter Select

SpicyGrassy

Only in Pacific Gem

Black currantBerryBlackberryFloralOakPine

Property

PropertySpalter SelectPacific Gem
Alpha acid3–6.5%13–15%
Beta acid2.5–5%7–9%
Co-humulone21–27%35–40%
Total oil0.5–0.9 mL0.8–1.6 mL
Myrcene20–40%30–40%
Humulene10–22%20–30%
Caryophyllene4–10%6–12%
Farnesene15–22%0–1%
OriginGermanyNew Zealand
PurposeAromaBittering

Related comparisons