WakatuvsPacific Gem

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

Wakatu

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6.5–8.5%

Beta acid

8–8.5%

Total oil

0.9–1.2 mL

New Zealand

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 Wakatu

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Pacific Gem

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Floral

Only in Wakatu

LimeTropicalZest

Only in Pacific Gem

Black currantBerryBlackberryOakPine

Property

PropertyWakatuPacific Gem
Alpha acid6.5–8.5%13–15%
Beta acid8–8.5%7–9%
Co-humulone28–30%35–40%
Total oil0.9–1.2 mL0.8–1.6 mL
Myrcene35–36%30–40%
Humulene16–17%20–30%
Caryophyllene8–9%6–12%
Farnesene6–7%0–1%
OriginNew ZealandNew Zealand
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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