ColumbusvsSouthern Dawn
Columbus and Southern Dawn are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Columbus
Alpha acid
14–18%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
Southern Dawn
Alpha acid
11.2–13.5%
Beta acid
4.3–5.9%
Total oil
-
South Africa
Key differences
When to pick Columbus
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
When to pick Southern Dawn
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
SpicyCitrus
Only in Columbus
EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurryFloralPungentDankCannabis
Only in Southern Dawn
QuinceLemongrassGingerChamomileStrawberryFruityHerbal
Property
| Property | Columbus | Southern Dawn |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 14–18% | 11.2–13.5% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6% | 4.3–5.9% |
| Co-humulone | 28–35% | 31–33% |
| Total oil | 2.5–4.5 mL | - |
| Myrcene | 45–55% | 22–45% |
| Humulene | 9–14% | 17–25% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–10% | 8–11% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 4–10% |
| Origin | United States | South Africa |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |