CentennialvsSouthern Tropic
Centennial (dual purpose) and Southern Tropic (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Centennial
Alpha acid
7–12%
Beta acid
3.5–5.5%
Total oil
1–3 mL
United States
Southern Tropic
Alpha acid
12.6–18.1%
Beta acid
5–6.5%
Total oil
-
South Africa
Key differences
When to pick Centennial
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Southern Tropic
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Citrus
Only in Centennial
PineFloralGrapefruitTangerine
Only in Southern Tropic
MelonTroicalGuavaButterscotchLemongrassCoconutPungentPineappleBubblegum
Property
| Property | Centennial | Southern Tropic |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 7–12% | 12.6–18.1% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–5.5% | 5–6.5% |
| Co-humulone | 23–30% | 26–30% |
| Total oil | 1–3 mL | - |
| Myrcene | 55–65% | 19–46% |
| Humulene | 10–20% | 14–40% |
| Caryophyllene | 5–7% | 6–14% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 8–11% |
| Origin | United States | South Africa |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |