ChinookvsSouthern Brewer

Chinook (dual purpose) and Southern Brewer (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Chinook

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–15%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2.7 mL

United States

Southern Brewer

Bittering

Alpha acid

8–12%

Beta acid

2.5–5%

Total oil

0.4–1.5 mL

South Africa

Key differences

When to pick Chinook

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Southern Brewer

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Chinook

PineResinGrapefruitSpicyDankCannabis

Only in Southern Brewer

EarthyWoody

Property

PropertyChinookSouthern Brewer
Alpha acid11.5–15%8–12%
Beta acid3–4%2.5–5%
Co-humulone27–35%38–41%
Total oil1–2.7 mL0.4–1.5 mL
Myrcene20–30%-
Humulene18–24%-
Caryophyllene9–11%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited StatesSouth Africa
PurposeDual purposeBittering

Related comparisons