Barbe RougevsSouthern Promise

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

Barbe Rouge

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.8–10%

Beta acid

3.3–4.6%

Total oil

1.1–3 mL

France

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 Barbe Rouge

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • 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

CitrusFloralBerryHerbal

Only in Barbe Rouge

KumquatOrangeLimeRedcurrantStrawberryRaspberry

Only in Southern Promise

FruityWoody

Property

PropertyBarbe RougeSouthern Promise
Alpha acid3.8–10%9.5–14.5%
Beta acid3.3–4.6%3.6–5.8%
Co-humulone24–28%20–22%
Total oil1.1–3 mL0.7–1.1 mL
Myrcene35–60%21–25%
Humulene15–25%23–27%
Caryophyllene2–4%7–11%
Farnesene0–4%0–1%
OriginFranceSouth Africa
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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