ChinookvsSouthern Dawn

Chinook and Southern Dawn are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Chinook

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–15%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2.7 mL

United States

Southern Dawn

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.2–13.5%

Beta acid

4.3–5.9%

Total oil

-

South Africa

Key differences

When to pick Chinook

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

When to pick Southern Dawn

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Chinook

PineResinGrapefruitDankCannabis

Only in Southern Dawn

QuinceLemongrassGingerChamomileStrawberryCitrusFruityHerbal

Property

PropertyChinookSouthern Dawn
Alpha acid11.5–15%11.2–13.5%
Beta acid3–4%4.3–5.9%
Co-humulone27–35%31–33%
Total oil1–2.7 mL-
Myrcene20–30%22–45%
Humulene18–24%17–25%
Caryophyllene9–11%8–11%
Farnesene0–1%4–10%
OriginUnited StatesSouth Africa
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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