StirlingvsPacific Gem
Stirling (dual purpose) and Pacific Gem (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Stirling
Alpha acid
6–12%
Beta acid
4–6%
Total oil
1.3–1.9 mL
United States
Pacific Gem
Alpha acid
13–15%
Beta acid
7–9%
Total oil
0.8–1.6 mL
New Zealand
Key differences
When to pick Stirling
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Pacific Gem
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Floral
Only in Stirling
HerbalCitusSpicy
Only in Pacific Gem
Black currantBerryBlackberryOakPine
Property
| Property | Stirling | Pacific Gem |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 6–12% | 13–15% |
| Beta acid | 4–6% | 7–9% |
| Co-humulone | 21–28% | 35–40% |
| Total oil | 1.3–1.9 mL | 0.8–1.6 mL |
| Myrcene | 44–48% | 30–40% |
| Humulene | 19–23% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–7% | 6–12% |
| Farnesene | 11–17% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | New Zealand |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |