Pacific Jade™ Hops

Dual: Aroma and BitteringAlpha 12.0 - 14.0%New Zealand

Pacific Jade™ is a masterclass in dual-purpose utility, seamlessly blending the massive structural power of New Zealand high-alpha varieties with the delicate "Noble" finesse of its heritage. Developed by HortResearch and released in 2004, this variety was engineered from a cross between Saaz and the New Zealand hop First Choice. Pacific Jade™ provides brewers with a versatile tool capable of delivering high-intensity bitterness without the harsh, jagged edges often found in other super-alpha hops. Thanks to its unique genetic makeup and the pristine growing conditions of New Zealand, it has become a favorite for those seeking a "refined boldness"—acting as both a heavy-duty bittering workhorse and a sophisticated aromatic finisher.

The sensory profile of Pacific Jade™ is a striking and unconventional arrangement of fresh citrus and savory spice. It leads with a primary, "punchy" bouquet of bold, freshly crushed black pepper and herbal zest, followed by a vibrant secondary layer of sweet Meyer lemon and lime. As the profile develops, brewers will find a refined "green" freshness and a subtle hint of honeysuckle that remains impeccably clean on the palate. Due to its exceptionally low cohumulone levels, Pacific Jade™ delivers an incredibly soft, rounded bitterness that integrates perfectly with crisp pilsners and hop-forward ales alike. It is the definitive choice for imparting a sophisticated, peppery citrus depth with a polished finish.

Substitution Tip

If you can't find Pacific Jade, the best alternatives are Hallertau, Magnum, or Saaz.

At A Glance

ProfileBlack Pepper, Herbal Zest, Meyer Lemon, Lime, Honeysuckle
PurposeDual: Aroma and Bittering
Alpha Acid12.0 - 14.0%
SubstitutesHallertau, Magnum, Saaz
Pairs withMotueka™ (to amplify the lime and citrus), Saaz (to sharpen the peppery spice), or Nelson Sauvin™ (to add a complex wine-like fruit top-note)
Beer StylesPale Ale, India Pale Ale, Pilsner, Lager, Belgian Wit, Porter

General Information

Country
New Zealand
Alias
HORT1524
Storage Stability
Very good

Brewing Chemistry (Acids & Oils)

Alpha Acid
12.0 - 14.0%
Beta Acid
7.0 - 8.0%
Cohumulone
23.0 - 25.0%
Total Oil
1.2 - 1.5 ml/100g
Myrcene
28.0 - 35.0%
Humulene
28.0 - 33.0%
Caryophyllene
8.0 - 11.0%
Farnesene
< 1.0%
Linalool
~0.5%

Growth & Cultivation

Yield
1,800 - 2,100 lbs/acre
Maturity
Middle to late
Growth Rate
High / Vigorous
Cones
Medium to large, firm, and dense. They are noted for their high lupulin saturation and a pungent, pe
Ease of Harvest
Excellent; the bines are structurally strong, and the variety is well-suited for high-efficiency mec
Sex
Female
Leaf Color
Medium green
Side Arm Length
20" - 30" (medium)

Discovery Tags

Last Updated
  • 2026-04-16 01:09:36