AmarillovsSouthern Promise

Amarillo (aroma) and Southern Promise (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Amarillo

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–11%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

1–2.3 mL

United States

Southern Promise

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9.5–14.5%

Beta acid

3.6–5.8%

Total oil

0.7–1.1 mL

South Africa

Key differences

When to pick Amarillo

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Southern Promise

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralCitrus

Only in Amarillo

SpicyTropicalOrangeLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank

Only in Southern Promise

HerbalFruityWoodyBerry

Property

PropertyAmarilloSouthern Promise
Alpha acid7–11%9.5–14.5%
Beta acid5.5–8%3.6–5.8%
Co-humulone21–24%20–22%
Total oil1–2.3 mL0.7–1.1 mL
Myrcene40–70%21–25%
Humulene19–24%23–27%
Caryophyllene7–10%7–11%
Farnesene6–9%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesSouth Africa
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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