AmarillovsSouthern Star
Amarillo (aroma) and Southern Star (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Amarillo
Alpha acid
7–11%
Beta acid
5.5–8%
Total oil
1–2.3 mL
United States
Southern Star
Alpha acid
12–18.6%
Beta acid
4–7.5%
Total oil
1.4–1.7 mL
South Africa
Key differences
When to pick Amarillo
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Southern Star
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
FloralTropicalCitrusOrange
Only in Amarillo
SpicyLemonMelonApricotPeachGrapefruitDank
Only in Southern Star
QuinceBerryPineappleTangerinePassion fruitPearCassisRoseCoffee
Property
| Property | Amarillo | Southern Star |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 7–11% | 12–18.6% |
| Beta acid | 5.5–8% | 4–7.5% |
| Co-humulone | 21–24% | 25–31% |
| Total oil | 1–2.3 mL | 1.4–1.7 mL |
| Myrcene | 40–70% | 32–38% |
| Humulene | 19–24% | 23–27% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–10% | 10–14% |
| Farnesene | 6–9% | 8–12% |
| Origin | United States | South Africa |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |