African QueenvsSouthern Tropic
African Queen (dual purpose) and Southern Tropic (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
African Queen
Alpha acid
10–17%
Beta acid
3.9–6.2%
Total oil
0.7–1.5 mL
South Africa
Southern Tropic
Alpha acid
12.6–18.1%
Beta acid
5–6.5%
Total oil
-
South Africa
Key differences
When to pick African Queen
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Southern Tropic
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
CitrusBubblegumLemongrass
Only in African Queen
DankBlueberryStone fruitBlack currantGooseberryCassisChiliesGazpacho
Only in Southern Tropic
MelonTroicalGuavaButterscotchCoconutPungentPineapple
Property
| Property | African Queen | Southern Tropic |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 10–17% | 12.6–18.1% |
| Beta acid | 3.9–6.2% | 5–6.5% |
| Co-humulone | 22–30% | 26–30% |
| Total oil | 0.7–1.5 mL | - |
| Myrcene | 20–29% | 19–46% |
| Humulene | 21–30% | 14–40% |
| Caryophyllene | 10–17% | 6–14% |
| Farnesene | 5–7% | 8–11% |
| Origin | South Africa | South Africa |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |
Amarillo