TridentvsPacific Gem

Trident (dual purpose) and Pacific Gem (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Trident

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–14%

Beta acid

4–5%

Total oil

1.5–3 mL

United States

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 Trident

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • 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

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Trident

FruityCitrusTropicalPassion fruit

Only in Pacific Gem

Black currantBerryBlackberryFloralOakPine

Property

PropertyTridentPacific Gem
Alpha acid11–14%13–15%
Beta acid4–5%7–9%
Co-humulone20–30%35–40%
Total oil1.5–3 mL0.8–1.6 mL
Myrcene-30–40%
Humulene-20–30%
Caryophyllene-6–12%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginUnited StatesNew Zealand
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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